In very simple terms, if you want to stop, you need to look and listen. What this means is there are basically two simple ways to check for wear on your vehicle’s disc brakes: by LOOKING and by LISTENING.

Looking
If possible, have a look at your brake pads through the spokes in your vehicle’s wheels. The outside pad will be pressed against a silver metal disc called the “rotor”. In general terms, there should be at least 1.27 cm or 1/4 inch of pad. If you see less than that, have a professional inspect and most likely replace your brake pads.

Listening
Are you hearing a high-pitched screeching sound when you press the brake pedal? That’s likely what is called an indicator doing its job. The Indicator is a small metal shim designed specifically to make that awful sound when your brakes are close to wearing out. It’s telling you the pads are nearly gone and that you need to take you vehicle in for service immediately.

Here are some other signs of brake problems. If you experience any of these, get to your local service centre as soon as possible:

Pulling
If your vehicle “pulls” to one side while braking, your brake pads may be wearing unevenly or you may have a problem with your brake fluid. Your vehicle likely needs a brake adjustment or to have its brake fluid drained and replaced.

Grinding or growling
A loud metallic sound means that you have completely worn down your brake pads. The grinding or growling noise is caused by the two pieces of metal (the rotor and the caliper) rubbing together. This is serious because you’ve likely started to do permanent damage. If so, you will now need to resurface or completely replace your rotors.

Vibration
A vibration or pulsating brake pedal is often a symptom of warped rotors (but could also be a sign that your vehicle is out of alignment). Vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes can give a similar kind of feedback during panic stops, so if you are unsure, take your vehicle to your service centre for a proper assessment.

Warped rotors are caused by severe braking for long periods, such as when driving down a steep mountain or when towing. Tremendous amounts of friction are created under these conditions, heating up the rotors and causing them to warp.

Reduced performance or “fading”
If your brakes are not as effective as they used to be or if the brake pedal “sinks” toward the floor with little effect, you could have a leak in your braking system. Look for the presence of a small puddle of fluid under your vehicle where it’s parked. This is a serious issue that demands immediate attention!

For many owners, maintaining the vehicle’s brakes is something that is often overlooked. But keeping your brakes properly calibrated and in good working order can prevent costly repairs down the line, and, more importantly, it will help keep you and your family safe.

Click the SERVICE button below to arrange a thorough inspection of your vehicle’s braking system.