5 Things You Should Know About Brake Pads

1. BRAKE PADS DON'T LAST FOREVER

Brake pads use their surfaces to create braking friction. Over time, these surfaces wear down. Once a pad's surface wears down to a certain level, it will struggle to work efficiently. A worn pad might also damage other parts. So, you need to install new pads whenever your old ones wear out.

2. BRAKE PADS ARE AFFECTED BY THE WAY YOU DRIVE

Manufacturers often give estimated lifespan figures for brake pads. For example, your car manual might tell you to replace the pads once you've driven a certain number of kilometres.

However, this figure isn't set in stone. Your driving habits affect how long your brake pads last. For example, if you're a careful and smooth person who brakes, then your pads last longer. If you're heavy on your brake, then they will usually wear more quickly.



The amount of driving you do and the roads you use also affect your brake pads. If you don't use your car much, then your pads last longer. If you drive a lot or use rough roads or off-road tracks, then they will often wear more quickly.

3. INEXPENSIVE BRAKE PADS AREN'T ALWAYS THE BEST OPTION

While you have to choose the right type of brake pads for your vehicle, you get a lot of choices. You can buy parts from your car's manufacturer, or you can buy generic aftermarket parts. You can also choose pads made from different materials such as synthetic composites or ceramics.

You might be tempted to go for the least expensive option. However, low-cost pads could jeopardise your safety and prove to be a false economy.

You don't have to pay the earth for brake pads; however, you do need to install quality products. Badly made, low-priced pads won't necessarily do a good job. They could affect the speed and safety of your braking.

Plus, cut-rate brake pads aren't likely to last as long as higher-quality products. You might save money on these pads initially; however, your ultimate costs might be higher if you have to replace them more often. Sometimes, you should pay extra for better-quality products. They will be usually safer and last longer.

4. THE RIGHT BRAKE PAD FIT MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Brake pads should be fitted and seated in exactly the right positions. You also need to check related parts of the system during this process to make sure that everything works correctly.

If you don't fit the pads exactly right, then they can't do an effective job. They might also damage other parts, such as rotors.



While brake pad replacement isn't necessarily a big job, it's one you should leave to the professionals. Your brake pads will work safely and effectively if you have a professional install them.

5. BRAKE PADS TELL YOU WHEN THEY NEED REPLACEMENT

While some vehicles have a brake pad replacement dashboard light, some cars rely on drivers to work out when they need new pads. Your car sometimes tells you when this time has come.

For example, some brake pads make a squealing or screeching noise as they wear down to a low level. You might also find that your car starts to pull to one side when you brake if a pad on one side is too worn to work.

To check the condition of your brake pads, bring your car to Stopmaster Brakes. If you do need new pads, then we can recommend the best fit for your car and budget. We can then install your new pads quickly and professionally.