How to- Install Brake Pads (Ford F150, Expeditions, and Lincoln Navigators)

Common Signs That You Should Replace Brake Pads  

It’s important to understand the signs that brake pads should be replaced. Below are some common signs that indicate action should be taken right away.

1. Brakes Make a Squealing Sound

Some brake pads contain a small metal tab called an “indicator” that makes contact with the brake rotor when the pad material wears down to a certain point. When this happens, it will cause a squealing or squeaking sound to be emitted as a warning that the pads need to be replaced. If the pads are not replaced, the metal of the brake pad will eventually be exposed and can cause damage to the rotor, caliper, and other brake components. Additionally, if the pads are worn down too much, it can also reduce the effectiveness of the brakes, which can be dangerous.

It is important to inspect the brake pads as soon as you hear a squealing sound, or when the pads have worn down to the point where the metal of the pad is exposed. Not all squealing means pads need to be replaced, but it definitely means the brakes should be inspected for issues. This will help ensure that your brakes are in good working condition and can effectively stop your vehicle.

2. Brakes Make a Grinding Sound

Grinding sounds from the brakes can be a sign that the brake pads have worn down completely and the metal backing plate is now grinding against the brake rotor. This can cause damage to the rotors and significantly reduce their lifespan. In addition, the grinding sound is an indication that the pads are not providing enough friction to slow or stop the vehicle, which can be dangerous.

It is important to replace the brake pads if you hear a grinding sound because it can lead to more costly repairs in the future if the damage to the rotors is allowed to continue. Additionally, driving with worn pads can be dangerous as the brakes may not work effectively, increasing the risk of an accident.

If you hear a grinding sound from the brakes, it is recommended to have them inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. The mechanic will be able to determine the cause of the grinding sound and recommend the appropriate repairs, which may include replacing the brake pads and possibly the rotors.

3. Vibration When Braking

There can be several reasons why your brakes might vibrate when braking. One possible reason is that your brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced. When brake pads become worn, they can become thin and uneven, which can cause vibrations when the brakes are applied. Another possible reason for brake vibrations is that the rotors (the metal discs that the brake pads press against to stop the car) are warped or damaged. In some cases, brake vibrations can also be caused by issues with the brake caliper or the brake hose.

If you’re experiencing brake vibrations, it’s important to have the issue properly diagnosed by a mechanic. They can inspect your brakes and determine the root cause of the problem. If it turns out that your brake pads are the cause of the vibrations, replacing them will likely resolve the issue.

4. Taking Longer To Stop

If your vehicle’s brake pads are worn out, it can cause the vehicle to take much longer than usual to come to a complete stop when you press the brake pedal. This is because worn pads are not able to create enough pressure on the rotors to quickly stop the wheels from turning.

This can be a hazard, as it may not be able to prevent an accident or stop the vehicle from a collision when quick action is necessary. Therefore, it is important to replace the brake pads in a timely manner.

5. The Brake Warning Light Comes On

The brake warning light is designed to alert you when the brake pads have worn down to a certain level and need to be replaced. This is important because worn pads can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your vehicle’s braking system and can also lead to damage to other braking components, such as the rotors. 

Replacing the brake pads when the brake warning light comes on is important for the safety and performance of your vehicle, as well as to avoid costly repairs down the road. It is generally recommended to have the pads replaced as soon as possible after the brake warning light comes on to ensure that your vehicle’s braking system is in good working order.

6. Brake Pads Appear To Be Thin

To ensure the proper functioning of your car’s braking system, it is important to regularly check the thickness of your brake pads. They should be replaced at or before reaching their minimum thickness level 

Driving with thin brake pads can be dangerous, as they may not be able to stop the car quickly and safely in an emergency. To protect yourself and others, it is essential to replace thin pads as soon as possible to prevent any braking issues.

Do Not Postpone Brake Pad Replacement

If you notice signs that your pads need to be replaced, it is crucial to take action promptly. Below are just a few reasons why you should not delay brake pad replacement:

1. Wear and tear: Brake pads are designed to wear out over time as they are used. As the pads wear down, they become less effective at stopping the vehicle. Eventually, the pads will need to be replaced in order to maintain the vehicle’s braking performance.
2. Safety: Worn pads can be dangerous because they may not provide enough stopping power, especially in emergency situations. By replacing the pads, you can help ensure that your vehicle is able to stop quickly and safely.
3. Cost: It’s generally more cost-effective to replace brake pads before they wear out completely. If the pads wear down too much, they can damage the rotors, which are more expensive to replace. By replacing the pads before they wear out completely, you can save money on repairs in the long run.

Overall, it’s important to regularly check your brake pads and replace them when necessary in order to maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle.

Have a Question? PowerStop Can Help!

PowerStop is dedicated to delivering top-quality performance brakes for every vehicle on the road. If you have a question about any of our products, contact us today online or toll-free at (888) 863-4415. Our customer service team is available to answer your questions Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST). Se habla español.