Whenever you brake, the brake pads at each wheel press against the rotors, generating brake force. Each pad has a friction layer composed of organic, semimetallic, or ceramic materials bound by resin, which slowly wears away over time. Once this friction layer diminishes to under one-quarter of an inch, you’ll need to replace the pad before it runs out altogether. Here are some warning signs that you need to visit your local CDJR dealership for brake pad replacement.
High-Pitched Squealing
Fortunately, modern brake pads make it easy to know when it’s time for replacements. As the friction layer diminishes, a tiny metal tab is eventually uncovered that scrapes harmlessly but noisily against the rotor. This creates a high-pitched squealing sound to draw your attention. It’s best not to ignore this sound lest the friction layer disappears, which could lead to real brake trouble.
Metallic Grinding Sounds
If one of your brake pads wears away completely or suffers some kind of fault, you may hear rough metallic grinding noises when you brake. These sounds mean the pad’s metal casing is scraping directly against the rotor disc, which will damage the rotor and may prevent your car from stopping as effectively. Have grinding pads replaced at once.
Weakened Brake Force
If one of your brake pads, or another brake component, malfunctions, your car may become more difficult to stop. This is hazardous; you should pull over at once to figure out and fix the fault. Overheating brake pads can occasionally cause a temporary loss of stopping power. This occurs as the resin melts, releasing a tiny amount of gas that robs the pad of proper friction.
Tugging to One Side
If one of your brake mechanisms loses strength, your car is likely to veer to one side. This means you won’t be able to handle or stop your car as precisely as before. Have the problematic brake pad replaced right away.
Brake Pad Warning Light
Your car may have a warning light that comes on when sensors detect a worn-out brake pad. Once you see this warning light appear, you can stop your car and visibly inspect each pad through the spokes of the wheels. If any pad looks a quarter of an inch or less in thickness, you’ll need to have it replaced.
Visit Your CDJR Dealership for Regular Brake Inspections
With routine inspections, you can ensure that you’re never taken by surprise by a failing brake pad. Our technicians will carefully examine each component, including the brake lines and fluid. They can let you know the condition of each pad and how much longer they’re likely to last.
Visit Blue Ribbon Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram in Sallisaw, OK, for a brake inspection or new brake pads today. We provide a convenient local go-to solution for all your automotive purchasing and maintenance needs.
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