As you know, a car contains thousands of components, each with its own unique function. For the vehicle to move or stop effectively, all parts must work properly together. An ideal car should meet requirements such as speed and safety and be able to fulfill the needs of its passengers. On the other hand, to ensure the proper functioning of the car, the driver must also have a basic understanding of all parts and perform regular inspections to detect and fix any issues in a timely manner.
Brake pads are one of the most essential components in a car, playing a critical role in safety. Even minor damage to them can lead to serious accidents. In this article, we introduce 7 signs that indicate it’s time to replace your brake pads.

1. Loud Noise When Braking

Have you ever heard a loud, screeching sound when you press the brakes? This sound comes from a small metal tab on the brake pad and acts as an audio warning that the pads need to be replaced. Interestingly, this noise is so sharp that you can hear it even with the windows rolled up. However, if your music volume is too high, you might miss it.
There is one exception: if your car has been parked after heavy rain or a wash, a thin layer of rust may form on the brake disc due to moisture. In such cases, a screeching sound may occur when braking. This is completely normal and caused by the brake pads rubbing against the rust. Once the rust is removed by braking, the noise will disappear.
So, don’t assume every time you hear a squeal that your brake pads need replacing. More thorough inspection is necessary.

2. Grinding Sound in the Braking System

If you hear a loud grinding noise every time you press the brake pedal, it means your brake pads are so worn out that the caliper is making contact with the brake disc. Worn-out pads can start to crumble, and if not replaced, they can cause irreversible damage to the braking system and lead to total brake failure.

3. Vibration While Braking

Brake pedal vibration is often a sign of a warped brake disc or an indication that it’s time to replace the brake pads. In some cases, it could also mean the vehicle is out of balance.
In cars equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), the vibration may feel like normal brake feedback during sudden stops. However, if your car does not have ABS and you feel vibration when braking, it likely indicates a warped brake disc.
This usually happens after prolonged and heavy braking—such as driving downhill from a mountain or towing a heavy load. During such situations, the disc overheats and becomes warped.
The vibration occurs because the brake pads can no longer grip the disc surface evenly. If you frequently drive downhill or tow with your vehicle, it’s recommended to take periodic stops to allow the brakes to cool down and avoid damaging the braking system.

4. Reduced Braking Performance

When brake pads are worn out, it takes longer than usual for the vehicle to come to a full stop.
Worn-out pads can’t apply enough pressure to the brake disc to slow down the wheels effectively. This issue is extremely dangerous and poses a serious safety risk for passengers and other road users.
To maintain proper stopping power and quick response time, make sure to replace brake pads on time.

5. Brake Warning Light Turns On

When the brake warning light appears on the dashboard, it usually indicates that the brake pads are worn out or the brake fluid level is low.
Most modern vehicles have sensors that trigger this light when the brake pads become thin.
It’s also worth noting that worn brake pads can cause the brake fluid level to drop, further confirming the need for a check or replacement.

6. Brake Pads Appear Thin

Sometimes, brake pads look visibly thin, and in such cases, they should be replaced immediately.
Driving with thin brake pads is not safe.
Standard brake pads should not be thinner than one-third of an inch to stop the car quickly and safely.
To avoid brake failure and protect yourself and others, replace all worn-out brake pads without delay.

7. Steering Pulls to One Side

If your car pulls to one side while braking, it may be a sign that the brake pads are worn unevenly or that there is a foreign substance in the brake fluid. Depending on the mechanic’s diagnosis, your vehicle may need brake pad replacement or brake fluid replacement.

Other Signs That Indicate It’s Time to Replace Your Brake Pads:

• Brake pad wear down to the final layer
• Brake pedal feels “stepped” and requires maximum pressure to stop
• Unusual noises while braking, especially at high speeds
• Drop in brake fluid level due to filling the space behind the wheel pistons
• Increased stopping distance and feeling of the car being dragged even after braking
• Brake warning light turns on
• Oily brake pad surfaces due to technical issues
• “Glazing” of the pad surface — shiny and smooth surface caused by overheating
• Cracks or fractures in the pad surface due to repeated high-speed braking
• Poor brake pad design (in non-standard pads) causing them to stick to the disc without pressing the brake

Factors That Determine When to Replace Brake Pads and Brakes:

| Brake Pad Hardness:
Harder brake pads generally last longer but need to warm up before working effectively. Softer pads perform better at low speeds—ideal for city driving—but may wear faster under high heat.

| Driving Habits:
Aggressive driving or frequent hard braking causes pads to wear out faster than smoother, gradual stopping.

| Environmental Conditions:
Heavy stop-and-go traffic, urban driving, and frequent stopping at traffic lights put more pressure on brakes. Driving in mountainous areas can also significantly increase brake pad wear.