Brake pads are a consumable part of your braking system, as they wear out while they work. Worn pads are dangerous, and your Toyota dealer can easily and quickly replace them for you. To keep you safe while you’re driving in Rockville, MD, we’d like you to know more about your pads and how to spot a possible problem with them.
Brake Pad FAQs
What Do Pads Do?
The pads fit into the brake calipers that are positioned above each wheel rotor. When you hit the brakes, the calipers close on either side of each rotor. Each pad generates friction against its rotor’s surface, and this friction slows and stops the wheels.
Friction is essential for slowing and stopping your rotors. The pads have a friction material covering that slowly wears down each time you use your brakes. As the material wears off, your braking system will take longer to respond, and this can lead to an accident.
How Often Do Pads Need Replacement?
On average, the pads need replacement every 25,000 to 65,000 miles. The standard replacement time for the pads in your Toyota is listed in your car’s manual. It’s important to note that your pads could have a longer or shorter life depending on several factors. If, for example, you routinely ride your brakes, the pads will wear out faster.
If your pads aren’t due for replacement, but your braking system is noisy or slow to respond, the pads could be worn. Our technicians can examine your pads, and we’ll replace them if they show signs of damage.
Signs You Need New Pads
Screeching Noise
As we’ve seen, the pad’s friction material covering wears off. A new pad has a covering that’s 1/2-inch thick. When a pad has worn down to 1/4-inch thickness, the pad needs to be replaced. You’ll start to hear an unpleasant screeching noise each time you brake. This sound is generated by a metal spike in the pad scraping against the rotor as a warning that the pad is thin.
Glazed Pads
Glazing is caused by pads kept in close contact with the rotors for an extended period. This can happen if you frequently need to drive downhill, or you regularly need to ride your brakes. In both circumstances, the pad skims across the rotor’s surface, and its material covering turns glass-like. A glazed pad is dangerous as it can’t generate friction and prevents the calipers it’s attached to from stopping the wheel from moving.
Schedule a Brake Pad Replacement in Rockville, MD
Pads are inexpensive, but they can lead to damage to your braking system and even the axles if they’ve worn out. If your brakes aren’t working as efficiently as they should be, visit our service department today at DARCARS 355 Toyota of Rockville.
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