How Do You Check Brake Pads?

Why Regular Brake Pad Checks Are Important

Brake pads don’t last forever, and waiting too long to check them can lead to bigger, more expensive problems, like damaged rotors or reduced stopping power when you really need it.

Regular checks help you spot wear early, keeping your brakes working the way they should. Even if everything feels fine, your pads could be wearing down quietly behind the scenes.

When you bring your vehicle in, technicians check a few key things: pad thickness, rotor condition, uneven wear, and signs of damage or glazing. They'll also take a test drive to listen for noises and inspect the brake fluid levels for any leaks or drops.

Catching small issues early helps avoid major repairs down the road. Plus, it keeps your stopping power strong and your drive safe. 

Warning Signs of Worn-Out Brake Pads

Your brakes have a way of speaking up when something’s not right. You just have to know what to listen for. 

If you hear a high-pitched squeal when you stop, that’s often the wear indicator letting you know the pads are getting low. A grinding noise could mean the pads are worn down to the metal, which can damage the rotors. You might also feel a soft or spongy brake pedal, notice longer stopping distances, or see a warning light on the dashboard. 

If the steering wheel shakes when braking, that could point to uneven wear or warped rotors.

Any of these signs mean it’s time to get your brakes looked at. Ignoring them only makes things worse, and a lot more expensive.

How to Inspect Your Brake Pads

You don’t need to be a mechanic to get a quick look at your brake pads. Start by turning your wheel slightly outward to get a better view through the spokes. Look for the brake pad, it's the dull, blocky piece pressing against the metal rotor.

Most pads start at about 10–12 mm thick. If they’re down to around 3 mm or less, it’s time to replace them. No visible pad? That’s a red flag. You can also check for uneven wear or deep grooves in the rotor. 

If your wheels are off, checking is even easier. Just keep in mind, this is just a surface-level check. For a full inspection, a trained tech can take things apart and give you a detailed report.

When to Replace Brake Pads

Most brake pads need replacing when the friction material gets down to about 3 millimeters thick. If you hear squealing, grinding, or notice longer stopping distances, it's time. 

Some vehicles have sensors that trigger a dashboard light. And your driving habits and road conditions matter too (lots of stop-and-go traffic can wear pads faster). 

However, don’t wait until it’s metal-on-metal. Replacing pads early protects your rotors and keeps your brakes performing the way they should.

Not sure how much life your brake pads have left? Swing by your neighborhood GreatWater-affiliated location today. Our experts will take a look, walk you through what they find, and help you stay ahead of costly repairs. Call or book an appointment online at a shop near you, we’ve got you covered.