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Everything you need to know about brake pads, discs and fluid — symptoms to watch for, when to replace, and how to bed-in new brakes safely.
Key Signs Your Brakes Need Attention
- ✔️ Squeal or grinding noises when braking
- ✔️ Steering wheel shake or brake pedal judder
- ✔️ Car pulls to one side under braking
- ✔️ Longer stopping distances or a “spongy” pedal
- ✔️ Brake warning light on the dashboard
When Should I Replace Pads & Discs?
Replacement timing depends on driving style and conditions. Many workshops advise changing pads when the friction material approaches a few millimetres, or sooner if performance is affected. Discs should be replaced when below the minimum thickness stamped on the disc hub or if they’re cracked, excessively worn, or heavily scored.
| Symptom | Likely Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| High-pitched squeal | Glazed pads, wear indicators touching, dust build-up | Inspect pad thickness; clean/replace if needed |
| Grinding noise | Pads worn to backing plate | Stop using vehicle; replace pads and inspect discs |
| Judder/vibration | Disc thickness variation, warped or contaminated discs | Measure discs; machine or replace as appropriate |
| Pulls to one side | Sticking caliper, uneven pad wear, tyre/geometry issue | Check caliper slides/pistons; inspect suspension/tyres |
| Spongy pedal | Air in system, old brake fluid, flexible hose issue | Bleed system; test fluid; inspect hoses |
Brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), which lowers its boiling point over time. Old fluid can cause a soft pedal and fade under heavy braking.
- Typical change interval: around every 2 years, or as specified by your vehicle manufacturer.
- Warning signs: dark/dirty fluid, spongy pedal, brake warning light.
- Safety: use only the correct spec for your vehicle and avoid spilling on paintwork.
- Pads: friction blocks that clamp onto the disc to slow the car. Replace in axle pairs.
- Discs (rotors): metal rings attached to the hub. Replace when below minimum thickness or damaged.
- Calipers: house the piston(s) that push pads onto the disc. Keep slides and pistons moving freely.
- Wear sensors: some cars have electronic or mechanical indicators that trigger a warning when pads are low.
- Choose a safe, quiet road. From moderate speed, apply medium brake pressure to slow down — repeat 5–6 times without stopping completely.
- Allow a short cooling drive between applications; avoid heavy braking or holding the pedal on when stationary.
- For the first 150–200 miles, avoid emergency-style stops unless needed.
This helps transfer an even layer of material to the discs and reduces the chance of judder.
- Red brake warning: stop safely and check fluid level; if the light remains on, arrange diagnosis.
- ABS light: anti-lock system issue; standard braking usually remains, but stability may be affected.
- Parking brake light: may indicate the handbrake is on or a system fault.
DIY Safety Notes
- Work on a cool vehicle, on level ground with proper support stands.
- Wear eye protection and gloves; avoid inhaling brake dust.
- Never clamp flexible brake hoses; use correct tools and torque values from the vehicle manufacturer.
- After any brake work, press the pedal several times to seat pads before moving the vehicle.
- If unsure at any point, seek professional help.
Brake Care – FAQs
Anything from 10,000 to 60,000+ miles depending on driving style, vehicle weight and route type. Frequent city driving wears pads faster than motorway use.
Not always, but discs must be above minimum thickness and in good condition. Worn or badly scored discs should be replaced to avoid noise and poor braking.
Often due to disc thickness variation or uneven pad deposits. Check discs for run-out and thickness; ensure wheels and hubs are clean and correctly torqued.
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