What does it mean when the brake pad warning light comes on?

[AthenaLee]

When the brake pad warning light illuminates, it indicates that the brake pads have worn to their limit and need to be replaced. Below is relevant information about brake pads. Brake pad classifications: Asbestos brake pads (mostly phased out), semi-metallic brake pads, low-metallic brake pads, NAO formula brake pads, ceramic brake pads, NAO ceramic brake pads. Function of brake pads: Brake pads serve the purpose of braking. In a vehicle's braking system, brake pads are the most critical safety components. The effectiveness of all braking performance is decisively determined by the brake pads. High-quality brake pads act as guardians for both drivers and vehicles.

[SebastianFitz]

I often help friends check their cars and have encountered many instances where the brake pad warning light comes on. This is usually because the brake pads are severely worn, and the system sensor detects that the thickness is below the safety standard, triggering the warning light. Over time, brake pads wear thin, especially in disc brake systems, where the metal backing plate can come into contact, causing the signal to trigger. Sometimes, aging wiring or a short circuit in the sensor can cause false alarms, but you should never ignore it. When the light comes on, you should check it immediately—the risk of brake failure is high. I’ve seen drivers who delayed for a few days end up with soft brakes and nearly rear-end another car. It’s best to visit a professional shop as soon as possible. They’ll disassemble the brakes and measure the thickness—if it’s below 3mm, it’s time to replace the pads. Regular maintenance can save you trouble; checking every six months is ideal to ensure safety.

[MacJosie]

Last time I was driving, the brake pad warning light suddenly came on, which scared me into pulling over immediately to check the manual. The manual stated that this light indicates the brake pads have reached their wear limit, and when the pads become too thin, it triggers the sensor alarm. It could be that the pads are worn down or there's an issue with the wiring, but regardless, you shouldn't take any chances. I drove straight to the repair shop, where the mechanic confirmed that the pads were completely worn out and needed replacement. The light coming on means the brake clearance has increased, leading to longer emergency stopping distances, which is very dangerous. After the replacement, I learned to regularly check the brake pads myself and not to delay maintenance—safety comes first, it's more important than saving money. Remember, when the light comes on, stopping and seeking help is the safest option; don't risk it to save a little money.

[VonCassandra]

The brake pad warning light is absolutely a red alert, indicating an issue with the braking system. It could mean the brake pads have worn down to the warning point, a sensor malfunction, or wiring damage. With years of driving experience, I stop immediately to check when this light comes on because braking performance can deteriorate sharply, increasing the risk of an accident. Safety comes first, and ignoring such warnings may lead to brake failure. Pay attention to unusual brake noises or changes in pedal feel during daily driving, as they can be precursors to the light turning on. Visit a repair shop as soon as possible to ensure the brakes are functioning properly.