Everything you need to know about brake pads

With driving being a lot about stopping and going, your brake pads provide an absolutely necessary service that without would make driving an absolute hazard. That pedal next to your gas pedal works tirelessly to bring your N Charlotte Toyota vehicle to a complete stop whenever your foot hits it. Your brake pedal applies your brake pads to the brake disc to create friction which eventually brings you to a stop. You’re probably thinking, give me a break from all this brake stuff! But, Toyota of N Charlotte is here with some essential knowledge on brakes and how to tell if they’re going bad.

Give your brake pads a break

The brakes on your N Charlotte Toyota vehicle take a lot of punishment throughout your drive. All that stopping and going wears your brake pads and your brake discs down pretty quickly. In fact, the essential parts of your brakes only last about two to three years. But, depending on how you drive and where, your brakes could wear out more slowly or quickly.

If you’re unsure about the condition of your N Charlotte Toyota brakes, there are several symptoms you should look out for.

• Brake Warning Light: Your N Charlotte Toyota vehicle is designed with several warning systems to let you know if an essential part is ready to be replaced or failing. While you’ll typically see warning lights for an oil change or underinflated tire, there’s also one for your brake pads. If this light comes on, then you likely have a brake pad problem on your hands.
• Soft Brake Pedal: When pressing on the brake pedal, you should expect it to have a little resistance and stopping should happen almost immediately. If the pedal is going soft, you’ll likely still be able to brake, but it may require more force.
• Squealing Brakes: A good sign that your brake pads need to be replaced is a squealing sound that happens as soon as you apply the brakes. The squealing sound happens because of a build-up of brake dust. If left unchecked, the brake sensor could make contact with the rotor and cause a harmful scraping or grinding.
• Delayed Brakes: Worn brake pads creates uneven friction and often makes deceleration a more drawn out process than usual. Your N Charlotte Toyota needs to stop quickly enough while driving, if it can’t then you should visit out auto service center as soon as possible.
• Vibrating Brakes: Noticeable pulsating or excessive vibrations are another sign of uneven friction. When your brake pad is worn and comes in contact with the rotor it results in excessive vibrations that you can often feel in the pedal.

Fix your brake pads at Toyota of N Charlotte

Your brakes are nothing to mess around with and can keep you safe during your commute. Make sure they’re well taken care of and in good condition with Toyota of N Charlotte. Our auto service department is open seven days a week and you can find at 13429 Statesville Road.