When a warning sign gives a possible indication that your brake pads are due for replacement, you can check your brake pads for ware fairly easily. First you’ll need a basic understanding about how your brakes work.
Most vehicles use what are called “disc brakes”. They function in a similar way to the brakes on a ten-speed bicycle. A hydraulic system filled with brake fluid triggers a set of padded clamps called “calipers”. The calipers squeeze together on a disc called the “rotor”. It is the friction between the pads and rotor that eventually stops the car.
Over time and use, the brake pads begin to wear thin, making them less effective at allowing down and stopping your car. You can determine the thickness of your brake pads through this straightforward procedure:
- Look through the spokes of your wheel and identify the shiny metal rotor inside. Then look around the outer edge where you’ll find the metal caliper. Then, between the caliper and the rotor, you’ll spot the brake pad. Take a quick guestimate of the thickness. Brake pads should be at least one-quarter of an inch thick. Any thinner than that is treading on ‘thin ice’.
- If your car wheels aren’t designed in a way that you can see through the spokes, you’ll have to take off the tire in order to see the rotor and the pads. Then while you’re ‘in the neighborhood’, it’s a good idea to inspect the rotor itself. The rotor should be fairly smooth, so if you observe any deep grooves or pits, it might also be a good idea to replace it as well.
For all your brake pad or rotor replacement needs, shop GMoutletparts for your vehicle make and model. You’ll know you’ll be getting only the best genuine GM replacement parts manufactured specifically by GM for your GM vehicle. It’s all we carry. Any questions? Contact us for a prompt reply.
Source: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/auto-parts/brakes/brake-tests/5-signs-you-need-your-brakes-checked.htm#page=1
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