Love cruising down the highway in your gorgeous Benz? Of course, you do! That said, to best enjoy your ride, you need to make sure that you’re taking care of her accordingly.
How often should you change brake pads? And what are the warning signs you need to consider? Let’s get into what you need to know.
What Are Brake Pads?
First thing’s first: your car’s brake pads are a fundamental part of the brake system. They lie between the brake shoe and the brake drum.
As we all know, brakes are essential for both you and your car’s health. Faulty brakes can result in serious vehicle issues, which can also increase your likelihood of getting involved in a dangerous car accident.
Over time, brake pads wear down naturally. The more you drive, the more you use your brakes, which means the pads become thinner and thinner until they need replacement.
Signs You Need a Brake Pad Replacement
Fortunately, cars tend to be pretty vocal when they need a brake pad replacement. The following signs indicate the wearing down of your brakes.
Screeching and Squealing Noises
One of the first telltale signs of needing a replacement is the shrill, high-pitched squeak, squeal, or whine that comes when tapping on the brakes. Cars contain metallic shim indicators within the brake pads to produce this sound.
If you start hearing it while braking regularly, it’s time for an inspection.
Grinding and Growling
Do you hear a deep and low noise that sounds like grinding or growling? These concerning sounds may indicate worn brake pads, and it can also mean that the brake caliper and discs are making direct contact with the pads.
This metal-on-metal contact can result in further damage in the braking system. If you hear this noise, it’s time for an immediate check-up. Avoiding so could result in costly repairs.
Indicator Lights
Your Mercedes may have an indicator light that turns on when it is time to change the brake pads. Always consult with your owner’s manual to determine if your vehicle has this feature.
Quarter-Inch (or Less) of Brake Pad
If you’re hands-on with your car, you can check the brake pads yourself. Inspect through your tyre spoke to determine the brake pad against the brake rotor. (https://www.capitalfoodservices.com) If the pad measures at less than 1/4 inch thick, it’s time for an inspection.
How Often Should You Change Brake Pads?
As a general rule of thumb, brake pads last between 30,000-35,000 miles. Of course, this number varies on your type of vehicle, other potential issues in the car, and the way you drive.
For instance, those who drive in heavy commuter traffic need to use the brakes more frequently than drivers in sprawled-out, rural areas.
Final Thoughts
How often should you change brake pads? It depends on how you drive, where you drive, and the condition of your car.
At Welwyn Merx, we specialise in providing the highest levels of quality and performance. Check out more of our services today!