How Often Should Brake Pads Be Changed?

Servicing your vehicle is essential if you plan to drive it around Palatine, Arlington Heights, and Rolling Meadows, Illinois, for many more years and miles. While you’re likely familiar with many of the main service needs, you might be less familiar with the why and how of it all. For instance, “how often should brake pads be changed?” is a common question for many owners.

While the answer can vary greatly depending on the type of vehicle you own as well as how and where you drive, Arlington Toyota is here to provide some guidance so you can trust that your brakes are ready to ride.

Are My Brake Pads Bad?

While the vehicle’s stopping ability is a solid indicator of the condition of your vehicle’s brake pads, there are a few other signs to look out for if you’re wondering if your brake pads are bad.

Most modern vehicles and brake pads come with a built-in indicator that will warn you that the brake pads are getting too worn down. This is usually indicated through a high-pitched squealing sound when braking.

Some high-tech indicators will trigger a dashboard warning light to let you know that the brake pads are getting thin. However, the best way to determine if it’s time or nearly time to get your brake pads replaced is to talk with a service technician.

What Happens When You Get Brake Pad Service?

Most service centers will check the condition of your brake pads during an inspection to determine how soon you’ll need them replaced. This is a great way to keep an eye on them so that a replacement doesn’t sneak up on you.

However, when you do need to get them replaced, you might wonder how it’s done. Whether you plan to do it yourself or visit a service center, there are a few important steps that must be taken. It’s essential to ensure that you’re working with a brake pad that’s made to work with your vehicle.

When you know you have your hands on the right kind of brake pads, it’s time to remove the wheel and get started with the replacement. It’s also important to monitor the vehicle’s brake fluid levels and refill the system if it goes too low.