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Your brakes are one of the most important safety features on your car, but they’re also easy to overlook until something goes wrong. Brake pads, in particular, wear down over time and need regular attention to keep your car stopping smoothly and safely.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most common signs of worn brake pads, how to inspect them step-by-step, how often they should be replaced, and how staying ahead of brake maintenance can even help you avoid costly car insurance claims.
How Do You Know If Your Brakes Are Going Bad?
If something feels off when you hit the brakes, trust your gut. Your car might be trying to tell you something. Maybe the pedal feels soft or spongy, or you’ve noticed it takes longer to come to a full stop. These are early signs that your brake pads could be wearing out or that your braking system needs a little attention.
It’s easy to brush off these symptoms, but ignoring them can lead to bigger (and pricier) problems—like damaging your rotors or, worse, getting into an accident. And yes, accidents linked to worn brakes can affect your car insurance rates or even complicate a claim. Ultimately, catching brake issues early helps keep you safe and could save you money in the long run.
Signs of Bad Brake Pads
Brake pads don’t last forever, and your car has a few ways of letting you know when they’re ready to be replaced. Here are some of the signs to look out for:
Squealing or Grinding Noises
One of the most common red flags is a high-pitched squeal when you hit the brakes. That sound usually comes from a small metal indicator built into the brake pad, which is designed to alert you before the pads wear down completely. If you start hearing grinding, that means the pads are likely gone, and metal-on-metal contact is damaging your rotors. Driving like this puts your safety at risk, possibly leading to an at-fault accident and a potential premium increase.
Reduced Responsiveness
Does your brake pedal feel “mushy” or sink farther than it used to? That’s a sign your brake pads—or another part of the braking system—might be worn or failing. This reduced responsiveness can affect your stopping distance, which becomes especially dangerous in sudden-stop situations. A quick check and repair can help you avoid more serious issues and possible insurance claims.
Vibration or Pulling
Feeling a vibration in the brake pedal or steering wheel? Or does your car pull to one side when braking? These are signs of uneven brake pad wear or warped rotors. If left unaddressed, they can lead to alignment issues and increase your chances of an accident, which might complicate your insurance coverage.
Dashboard Warning Light
A brake system warning light may illuminate on your dashboard. If that light comes on, don’t ignore it. Have a professional check out your braking system before it turns into a more serious problem.
How to Check Brake Pads
Checking your brake pads is something you can do at home, and it’s one of the most valuable automotive maintenance tips for keeping your car in safe, road-ready condition. But before anything else, make sure your car is parked on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the tires to keep the vehicle from rolling.
You also need the right tools, such as:
- A lug wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- A flashlight
- A small measuring tool or visual gauge
Once you have everything situated, follow these steps:
- Loosen the lug nuts and carefully jack up the car.
- Remove the wheel to expose the brake assembly (some brake pads are visible without removing the wheel).
- Use your flashlight to check the brake pad thickness. If they’re less than ¼ inch thick, it’s time to replace them.
- Look for cracks, uneven wear, or anything that looks off.
- Check the rotor surface for deep grooves or scoring, which could indicate other issues in the system.
If anything seems unusual or you’d just feel better with a second opinion, take your car to a trusted mechanic. Getting expert advice early can help prevent bigger problems and keep your car insurance (and peace of mind) intact.
How Often Should Brake Pads Be Replaced?
Brake pads don’t have a one-size-fits-all lifespan, but a good rule of thumb is to replace them every 30,000 to 70,000 miles. That’s a wide range, and it really comes down to how—and where—you drive. If you’re usually stuck in stop-and-go traffic, driving in hilly areas, or hauling heavy loads, your brake pads will wear out faster than someone cruising on open highways.
Your car’s owner’s manual is a great place to check for specific recommendations. Or better yet, ask your mechanic during your next oil change or tire rotation. They can give you a heads-up on how your pads are wearing based on your driving habits.
Even if you’re not hitting the mileage markers yet, regular inspections are a smart move. Keeping tabs on your brake health helps you avoid surprise repairs and reduces your risk of accidents, which can lead to costly insurance claims or premium hikes.
Car Insurance Implications
Aside from being a safety hazard, worn brake pads can also impact your car insurance. If your brakes fail and cause an accident, you could be found at fault. That means potential rate increases, a hit to your driving record, and even coverage complications, depending on your policy.
“You’d be surprised how many accidents could’ve been avoided with something as simple as timely brake maintenance. If your brakes don’t feel right, don’t wait. Getting them checked now can save you from an accident later, and it might even help keep your insurance rates from going up.”
- Justin Yoshizawa, Director, Product Management, State
Conclusion
Letting your brake pads wear down too much can lead to accidents, expensive repairs, and even higher insurance premiums. However, you can stay ahead of it all with regular checkups and timely replacements. Plus, when you take care of your car, you’re less likely to file claims, which can help you save money on your insurance over time.
Looking for cheap car insurance? Mercury can customize an auto policy tailored to your needs without breaking the bank.
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