Your vehicle's brake system is a critical component for ensuring safe driving on the road. Brake pads play a necessary role in stopping your vehicle efficiently and effectively. Regular brake pad inspections, therefore, are a must for maintaining optimal braking performance and ensuring your safety while driving. Here’s how to check your brake pads at home and identify signs of wear or damage.

1. Gather the Necessary Tools

Before you begin, gather the following tools:

• Jack and jack stands
• Lug wrench
• Flashlight
• Gloves (optional)

2. Locate the Brake Caliper

Locate the brake caliper behind the wheel. The caliper is usually located near the top of the brake rotor and is held in place by bolts.

3. Remove the Wheel

Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel. Once the lug nuts are loosened, raise the vehicle using the jack and secure it with jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the brake caliper and rotor.

4. Inspect the Brake Pads

With the wheel removed, you'll have a clear view of the brake pads. Shine a flashlight into the caliper to inspect the brake pads. Look for the brake pad material, which should be at least a quarter-inch thick. If the pads appear worn down to less than a quarter-inch or if you see metal-on-metal contact, it's time to replace them.

5. Check for Uneven Wear

Inspect the brake pads for signs of uneven wear. Uneven wear can indicate issues with the brake caliper or brake rotor. Look for differences in thickness between the inner and outer brake pads. If you notice significant differences, it may be a sign of caliper issues that require further inspection.

6. Examine the Brake Rotor

While inspecting the brake pads, take a moment to examine the brake rotor. Look for grooves, cracks, or other signs of damage on the rotor surface. If you notice any abnormalities, it may indicate the need for rotor resurfacing or replacement.

7. Repeat for the Other Wheels

Once you've completed the inspection on one wheel, repeat the process for the remaining wheels. It's essential to check all four wheels to ensure the entire brake system is in good condition.

8. Reassemble the Wheel

After inspecting the brake pads on all wheels, reassemble the wheels using the lug nuts and tighten them securely. Lower the vehicle from the jack stands and tighten the lug nuts further once the vehicle is on the ground.

While performing a brake pad inspection at home can help you identify potential issues, it's not necessarily the easiest thing to do. Save time by having your brakes professionally inspected and serviced regularly. If you're unsure about the condition of your brake pads or if you notice any concerning signs during your inspection, don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with our shop.

Ensure your vehicle's safety on the road by scheduling a brake inspection and service at Proper Service of Baldwin Place. Give us a call, or fill out our online appointment form soon!