The Way Your Brakes Work
Your brakes are multiple components working together to bring your vehicle to a stop. Most vehicles today have disc brakes, though a few still use the old drum brakes. If your vehicle has disc brakes, you push hydraulic fluid into the brakes lines when you apply pressure to the brake pedal. Pressure is created from the fluid, causing the brake pads to press against the rotor, forcing it to stop, which makes the wheels stop turning. The pads are made of metal, which creates friction against the rotor. This friction wears out the brake pads over time. Many brake pads need to be replaced between 20,000 and 40,000 miles.
Different Types of Brake Pads
You may see a long list of brake pads when you shop, but they can all be broken into one of three major types. Non-metallic pads use synthetic or man-made materials, such as cellulose. Because they’re non-metallic, they aren’t as hard on the rotors and are quiet. The downside is they don’t last as long as other types of pads.
Semi-metallic pads are like their name indicates. They contain some metal mixed with non-metallic substances. They last longer than non-metallic brakes but aren’t as quiet. They also do more damage to the rotors. Ceramic brake pads use copper fibers along with clay and porcelain. They last longer and are quieter. These brake pads aren’t as hard on the rotors.
Signs Your Brake Pads Need to Be Replaced
When you bring your vehicle to the Service Center at ALM Ford Marietta, we’ll inspect your brake pads to determine if they need to be replaced. The metal plate wears down over time from friction. We measure this plate when we inspect the pads. If the plates are 3/32 of an inch, they should be replaced. Any lower than that, and you need to schedule the replacement right away. If it’s been a while since you’ve had your brake pads inspected, you can tell the pads are worn out by various signs:
- You hear a squealing or grinding sound every time you press on the brake pedal.
- Your vehicle takes longer to stop than it used to when you press on the brake.
- The brakes feel spongy or stiff or you feel a pulsing when you press on the pedal.
- You feel the vehicle pull to one side when you attempt to brake.
- You see grooves on the surface of the rotors.
