When does my vehicle need brake pads replacement or repair?

Mark Kennedy • September 1, 2020

Maintenance is crucial when it comes to the brake service and safety of your vehicle. The brake system of your vehicle is probably the most important safety feature. Well-maintained brakes can be the difference between avoiding an accident and a potential tragedy. To skip maintaining your vehicle’s brakes, can come at a high price later. That is why we are adamant about having brake pads replacement as part of regular brake maintenance.


According to an article in the NY Post, as many as a quarter of Americans feel they take a risk when they hit the road and their vehicle needs repair. This study included asking people to reflect on the current state of their vehicles and the results showed that many people are taking chances on the road because of the state of their vehicles. The data on the website NY Post revealed that 68% of the respondents’ vehicles had at least one thing wrong with them.

Ensuring that your vehicle’s brakes are in proper working condition is vital to keep you safe when driving or traveling with your family.

How Do You Know When to Replace the Pads in Your Disc Brakes? Here Are 5 Signs:

If you experience the following when driving, take your car to Professional Automotive Repair:


1.  High pitched screeching or squeal

This means your brake pads are getting worn out and a small piece of metal is making this noise as a precautionary measure. This is a good sign for when to change brake pads.

2.  Brake pedal vibration

If you feel vibrations when braking, it means the brake rotor, the rotating disc that the brake pads are pressed against to slow the wheel is getting worn out.

 3.  Visible wear and tear

How long do brake pads last? Inspect your car’s brake pads between the wheel’s spokes. The pads should be at least a quarter-inch thick.

 4.  Slow stopping response

How do you know if you need new brakes? If your brakes respond very slowly after you put your foot on the breaking pedal, your car’s brake pads are worn out or there is a leak in the braking system.

 5.  Driveway puddle

How do I know if I need new brake pads? If there is a puddle of fluid in your driveway where you park your car, it may be brake fluid, which means your car’s brake system is leaking fluid and it is time to have your car’s brakes checked out by a professional.


At Professional Automotive Repair, our professional team of mechanics can assist you with all brake repair services. The services we offer range from brake pads replacement or shoe replacement to brake rotor or brake drum replacement and brake system flush.

We will pay attention to the smallest detail of your vehicle’s brakes and ensure your safety on the roads with brakes that are in 100% working condition.


For any work done on your brake service or more information, contact Professional Automotive Repair today.

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