Signs your car brake pads need to be replaced
Hearing a squealing or clicking sound each time you pump the brakes? It’s a sign – it’s time to replace your brake pads or get your brakes serviced! Car brake maintenance is crucial to keeping your car safe and operating smoothly. Here we unpack some common ways you can tell it’s time for a service, how to check your brake pads, how long a brake service would take, and anything else you need to know to ensure your brakes are working correctly.
What are the signs that a car needs to change its brake pads?
We mentioned squealing or clicking sounds as common signs your brake pads need to be replaced. Most brake pads have built-in ‘wear indicators’, meaning after your pads have worn down to a dangerous extent, the indicator will scrape against the disc rotor and let out that horrible squealing noise.
Here are some other common signs it’s time to replace the brake pads:
- The nose of your car is pulling to one side whenever you brake
- It becomes harder or takes longer to brake
- brake pads vibrate strongly when you press them.
Waiting too long to change your brake pads can cause severe damage to your brakes and your car. For example, once brake pads have worn away, you’re putting more pressure on your disc rotor, which will wear down faster. Car brakes are a crucial safety mechanism for your car, and it is unsafe to be driving with them at less than optimal operating power, not to mention you’ll end up with a much larger bill when you finally head in to replace your brake pads.
How long do brake pads last?
How long brake pads last can vary from driver to driver and car to car. On average, if you’re driving in a more built-up area, where you need to use the brakes more frequently, you’re looking at 48,000 to 56,000 km before your brake pads need replacement. However, this is a general guideline, and it’s essential to watch and listen out for the signs we’ve spoken about in this blog post when judging if your brake pads need to be replaced.
How long should a brake service take?
A brake service typically takes around 1 to 2 hours, but it depends on the level of servicing the brakes need and whether or not the brake pads or other parts need to be replaced. When conducting a brake service with Midas, our specialists will check your:
- brake fluid
- calliper
- wheel cylinder
- front and rear pads or shoes
- disc brakes and drum brakes.
They’ll replace or update any components needing changing and conduct a test drive to make sure your car is operating correctly.
How much does it cost to replace brake pads in Australia?
Costs for brake pad replacement in Australia can vary depending on the car model and make. The best way to find out the price? Give our specialists at Midas a call, talk them through what you need, and they will be happy to help.
Let us replace your brake pads today!
Is it time to check your brake pads or have your brakes serviced in general? You’ve come to the right place. At Midas, our specialists can help conduct thorough brake servicing and overall car services – choose between the essential service or the extensive service. Get in touch today to book an appointment!