When to Replace Your Brake Pads: A Safety Guide

Your brakes are your vehicle's most critical safety system. Here's how to know when it's time for new brake pads:

Squealing or Squeaking - Most brake pads have wear indicators that create a high-pitched squeal when pads are getting thin. Don't ignore this warning!

Grinding Sounds - If you hear metal-on-metal grinding, your pads are completely worn and you're damaging your rotors. This requires immediate attention.

Reduced Responsiveness - If your brakes feel soft or you need to press harder to stop, your pads may be worn or there could be a fluid issue.

Visual Inspection - You can often see your brake pads through the wheel spokes. If they appear less than 1/4 inch thick, it's time for replacement.

Vibration When Braking - Pulsing or vibration in the brake pedal often indicates warped rotors, which can happen when pads are worn.

Don't compromise on brake safety. At Alex's Paint & Auto Body, we offer quick, affordable brake inspections and repairs.