If you are not sure when things need replaced on your vehicle, you are not alone. A lot of drivers on the road are similarly uncertain. However, learning how to identify problems and perform general maintenance of vehicles is very important. Brakes are essential and we rely on them to stop us safely when needed. So how do we know when it’s time to replace brake pads?

When brake pads get worn out it may affect how you drive your car. It’s dangerous to drive a vehicle that has worn out brakes. You rely on them to stop and slow you on time to avoid accidents. There are signs to let you know when your brakes need to be replaced. You may not see these signs suddenly but over time they may get worse, sometimes leading you to the conclusion that you need to replace brake pads.

Here are some signs to let you know that you should replace brake pads:

Your car is pulling to one side more than another: If you are driving down the road and you feel that your car lists in a certain direction upon braking, left or right, then you may need to change your brake pads. If you don’t pay attention to this sign now as it gets worse it could cause an accident. Always get your vehicle checked over by a qualified mechanic if this occurs.

Squealing Brakes: I’m sure you have heard the squealing of someone’s brakes as you are driving around. It is a distinct squeal that you know as brakes. It could just mean that dust or particles have become trapped between the brakes pads or it could mean that the brakes need to be replaced. Always get your brakes checked if you start to hear this obnoxious squeal.

Brakes feel hard: If you are applying your foot to the brake pedal it should feel soft enough to press down, but not too spongy. If they become hard to press down then you may need to replace your brakes. You may not notice this as soon as it starts. It usually comes on gradually as your brakes become worn out. Over time your brakes may lose their soft feel and become firm and then gradually hard, leaving you to believe that it’s time to replace brake pads. If your brakes seem to change in feel or performance for no clear reason, it is advisable to get them examined by a professional as soon as possible.

Brakes may become too soft or spongy feeling. This is a sign that you may need to replace brake pads because your brakes could be simply worn out.

Do you have to pump your brakes? You should be able to step on the brake pedal and immediately feel them holding so you can slow down or stop. But if you don’t notice your brakes holding you may need to pump them to get them to hold. Even then they won’t hold as well.

You should replace brake pads as soon as you notice one or more of the signs listed above. It is a matter of safety for you, your passengers, and anyone else on the road too. Don’t get complacent when it comes to brakes. If you are not sure if you need to replace brake pads then take it to a specialist to find out.