Brake Pad Replacement Service Available at Russ Darrow Chrysler Dodge Jeep RAM of West Bend
Brake Pad Replacement
Replacing your car's brake pads at the first sign of wear is important on three fronts. First and most importantly, it can save your life and that of your passengers. Secondly, it can prevent fender benders. And number three, it can save you money since a brake pad replacement is far less expensive than a complete brake job. So if you are not yet acquainted with your brake pads, it's time you learn about them.
What Are Brake Pads and What Do They Do?
Brake pads are the foot soldiers of the braking system. Brake pads may be ceramic or metallic and are at the forefront of the stopping process. They sit between the brake drum and the brake shoe which is the part that slows the tire's rotation by clamping down on it. By taking the brunt of the tremendous friction involved, brake pads save the rotors, discs, and calipers. So, allowing them to wear down will transfer the wear and tear to these more expensive brake components and accelerate their wearing out. Check out why you should trust our service center for brake pad replacements.
What Causes Brake Pads to Wear Out?
Every time you step on your brake, it inflicts a small amount of wear and tears on the pads. This is because the friction inflicted by the squeezing action of the brake shoe little by little wears away a bit of the brake pad's protective coating. It doesn't even require that you bring the car to a full stop. The simple act of slowing down involves friction. So it's easy to see how day by day, the pads become thinner and thinner until they are completely worn away, and need replacement.
How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
Brake pads generally last through 30,000 to 35,000 miles of usage. However, this varies according to driving conditions and driver habits. If you "ride the brakes", they will not last this long. Likewise, if your daily commute involves stop and go traffic conditions, they will not reach this milestone.
How to Tell If Your Vehicle Needs a Brake Replacement Service
When brake pads need replacing, there are several signs you should pay attention to. These include:
-A squealing or squeaking noise. This is caused by a small metallic shim placed in your Chrysler, Dodge, RAM, or Jeep, expressly to alert you.
-The pad's surface is worn down to 1/4-in or less. You can look for this if you look through the openings of your wheel's covering to see the brake pad pressed against the rotor. This is a good time to bring your car, SUV, or truck to Russ Darrow Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of West Bend so one of our certified technicians can inspect your pads.
-A metallic grinding sound. Hearing this is not good news! It means your brake pads are completely worn away. And as a result, your brake discs and calipers are coming into contact with each other. This metal on metal action can cause further damage. At this point, it's more than a good idea, it's imperative that you bring your vehicle into Russ Darrow as quickly as possible.
Russ Darrow Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of West Bend, IN is within driving distance of Jackson, Kewaskum, Slinger, and Richfield, WI. Call for an appointment today.