Technician inspecting brake pads of a vehicle

Brake Pad Replacement: How to Know When Itā€™s Time for New BrakesĀ 

How to Check Brake Pads 

“Why does my car sound like a screeching banshee?” If youā€™ve ever asked yourself this question while coming to a stop, chances are your brake pads are trying to tell you something. Keeping an eye on your brakes isnā€™t just about safetyā€”itā€™s about avoiding costly repairs down the road. But how do you know when itā€™s time? Letā€™s talk about how to check brake pads and when you should head to Flagship Mazda in Carolina, PR, for a replacement. 


Read more – Is Your Muffler Failing? Warning Signs to Watch For 


The Role of Brake Padsā€”More Than Just Stopping Power 

Your brake pads work hard every time you hit the pedal, creating friction against the brake rotors to bring your car to a stop. Over time, this constant pressure wears them down. Worn-out brake pads mean longer stopping distances and an increased risk of damage to other parts of your braking system. Ignoring them? Not a great idea. 


Read more – What Does a Check Engine Light Mean? A Guide for Drivers 


Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing 

So, how do you know itā€™s time? Look (and listen) for these warning signs: 

  • Squealing or Screeching Sounds: If you hear a high-pitched squeal when braking, your brake pads likely have wear indicators telling you theyā€™re too thin.Ā 
  • Grinding or Metal-on-Metal Noise: This is bad news. It means your pads are gone, and your rotors could be taking damage. Get to a service center ASAP.Ā 
  • Vibrations or Pulsing When Braking: If your brake pedal shakes like a leaf in the wind, your pads might be unevenly worn.Ā 
  • Warning Light on Your Dashboard: Some vehicles have a brake pad wear sensor that lets you know when itā€™s time to replace them.Ā 
Technician inspecting a brake pad of a vehicle
Technician inspecting brake pads of a vehicle

Read more – Transmission Fluid Leak? Hereā€™s What You Should Do Next! 


What Happens During a Brake Pad Replacement? 

When you bring your car to Flagship Mazda, our trained technicians inspect the entire braking system. Theyā€™ll replace worn brake pads, check the rotors, and ensure that the brakes are working as they should. 

Schedule a Service Appointment in Carolina, PR! 

Need an oil change? Tire rotation? Battery check? Flagship Mazdaā€™s service department has you covered. We work on all makes and models, so whether you drive a Mazda or something else, weā€™ll take care of it.  

Don’t wait until your brakes start screaming for help. Schedule your service appointment today at Flagship Mazda and keep your stops safe and silent!Ā