How To Know If Brake Pads Need Replacing

The following are a few instances to give you some indication of your brake pads condition.

Armed with as many warning signs as possible you can better know if you should bring your vehicle for a brake pad replacement and the extent of repair needed.

We aim at simplifying the decision for a fix and keeping you in the know.

When in doubt with your brakes, contact our mechanics with any questions you have.

A few signs your brake pads may need replacing:

Low Brake Pedal

A low brake pedal can be a leak in your braking system or worn brake pads. If your brake pedal feels lower than normal, your brake pads may need replacement. 

A low brake pedal lacks leverage needed to apply the right pressure to stop your vehicle. Don't dismiss a low brake pedal. Catch it early with a brake pad inspection.

Brake Clicking Sound

There are various accessories that come complete with a brake pad assembly. These clips and brackets keep your brake pads fitted properly to avoid wobbling.

If your brake pad components become faulty, rusted or loose, you may hear a rattling or clicking sound when you apply and release your brakes.

Increased Stopping Distance

An increase in stopping distance could indicate brake pad wear. This means forcing the brake pedal to sufficiently apply enough pressure to your rotors to slow and stop your vehicle.

If your vehicle is taking longer than usual to come to a complete stop, have your brake pads inspected for replacement.

Brake Pad Replacement Cost?

Brake pad replacement cost will vary depending on your vehicle and type of pads you install. It is also dependent on whether you require only front or rear brake pads, or a complete brake service is required (calipers & rotors).

For an accurate brake pad repair estimate, the best solution is to bring your vehicle in for inspection.

Alternatively, tell us your vehicle type and the experience you're having with your brakes and we'll provide the most accurate quote possible.

In general, across all makes and models: 

The average brake pad replacement cost is $100 - $500 for both sides either front or rear.

Again, these prices vary depending on the brand of brake pad replacement you prefer and whether your rotors need resurfacing and calipers serviced.

 

Here are some estimates for diagnosing a brake pad replacement in. These estimates are indicative only:

Honda Civic: $35 - $75

Honda Accord: $45 - $80

Acura TL: $47 - $85

Toyota Camry: $42 - $83

Chevrolet Impala: $35 - $82

Nissan Altima: $35 - $65

Ford F-150: $45 - $90

Brake Pad Replacement Summary

If brake pads are not replaced on time they will wear to the metal backing of the brake pad. Metal to metal contact with your disc rotors will cause extensive damage.

This will mean a resurfacing or replacement rotors along with replacing your brake pads.

Keep a look and listen for these brake pad repair warning signs:

• Brake pad screech or squeal - a metal tab indicator on your brake pads makes contact with your rotors when the pad material is low. This causes a faint squeal, screech or whining noise when you step on the pedal. This is a sign your pads are wearing thin. Damp weather may also create a similar brake noise but will go away after applying the brakes a few times.

• Thin brake pads - If you can manage seeing your brakes through your wheel, the brake pad material should be more than ¼ inch thick or roughly 7 mm. A brake pad visual is difficult for most vehicles so an inspection is advised.

• Brake pad grinding or growling - A brake pad grinding or growling sound can not only be heard but probably felt in the pedal and vehicle. At this stage, it is likely the vehicle requires more than a brake pad replacement and needs immediate attention. 

• Dashboard brake warning light - Some vehicles with a worn pad indicator system will light up on the dashboard when brake pads are low. Your owners manual will advise if your vehicle is equipped with this feature.

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