What are the indications that the rear brake pads need maintenance?
3 Answers
The indication that the rear brake pads need maintenance is the illumination of the brake pad warning light. Below is more relevant information: 1. Situations when the brake warning light illuminates: The brake warning light will definitely illuminate after normal parking, it will also illuminate if the parking brake is not released during driving, and another scenario is brake system malfunctions, such as brake fluid being below the minimum level, or the brake caliper not returning to position. 2. Potential fault phenomena when brake pads are worn thin: (1) Abnormal noises may occur when applying the brakes during normal driving. (2) The travel distance of the brake pedal may become longer when braking during normal driving. (3) It may lead to damage of the brake disc. (4) The most severe consequence could be brake failure.
After driving for so many years, the signs of wear on the rear brake pads are all too familiar. The most obvious is the harsh metallic scraping sound from the rear wheels when braking—it’s so sharp it hurts the ears, especially when pressing the brake pedal harder. Sometimes, you can also feel the car shaking, like a slight vibration when stopping at a red light. The braking force weakens too, requiring more pressure on the pedal to stop the car than before. If these signals are ignored, a burnt smell might even come from the rear wheels, as if the brakes are overheating. From my experience, once you hear that sound, get it checked immediately because it means the pads are thin and could damage the brake discs, doubling the repair cost. I recommend listening for any changes in sound every six months—don’t wait for major issues. Safety comes first.
As someone who frequently maintains my own car, I find the signs indicating rear brake pad maintenance quite recognizable. The primary indicator is the dashboard warning light—most vehicles display a flashing brake system icon. Additionally, there's a slight clicking or hissing sound from the rear when braking, especially noticeable during low-speed stops. The brake pedal feels spongy and unresponsive, with a noticeably longer stopping distance, raising safety concerns. I make it a habit to regularly check the brake pad thickness by removing the wheel hub cover—if it's less than 3mm, it's time for a replacement. Ignoring these signs can lead to brake failure or overheating, significantly increasing accident risks. Remember, timely action can save substantial repair costs.
