Recognizing the signs you need new brake pads is essential for every driver. Your vehicle’s brakes are not just a component—they’re a lifeline. There’s never a right time or place for brake failure, making them crucial for your safety on the road. Regular brake checks are as vital as any maintenance task, potentially saving you from costly repairs and, more importantly, keeping you and your loved ones out of harm’s way.

Whether you’re navigating icy streets or cruising down the highway, functioning brakes are non-negotiable. But how can you tell when it’s time for a replacement? From unusual noises to decreased responsiveness, your car communicates its needs.

Let’s explore seven critical signs you need new brake pads that every vehicle owner should be aware of, ensuring you’re always prepared for a safe journey.

Our best signs you need new brake pads

1. Temperamental Brake Pedal
Brake pedals can be sensitive as the pads wear out. A temperamental pedal usually takes one of two primary forms. A mushy pedal which requires you to push to the floor before it engages the brakes of the car and slow it down or a sticky pedal which grabs the brakes instantly even at the slightest touch. Anytime you have to push the pedal to the floor can be the frightening experience and hazardous. You should consider this a warning, and it’s time to take your car to the brake repair shops and have it brakes checked.

2. Thin Brake Pads
You don’t need to be an auto specialist to determine if the brake pads of your car are worn. There are a few signs which you as the owner can check, and you should replace your brakes.
One way to check the pads is to look. The external brake pad is visible as a material pressed against the rotor. If you can see less than a quarter inch of the brake pad, then they’re thin and should be replaced.
If you’re in doubt, you can run your finger along brake pad. If it feels small than bring it into Canadian Super Shop

3. Pulsating Brake Pedal
Another clear sign that your car needs new brakes is when the pedal pulsates under your foot. Pulsating brakes are a vibration or constant grabbing between the brake pad and the rotor caused by excessive heat which has warped the brakes or rotors.

4. Screeching Sound
Before your brake pads fail completely, you’re likely to hear an awful, blood curdling screeching noise. This sound will make individuals in a parking lot turn their heads and look. This racket is like nails on a chalkboard is produced by a tiny metal shim which acts as an indicator to alert motorists that they should replace their brake pads.

5. Loud Grinding Noise
There is a natural progression regarding noises you hear when the brake pads are wearing. First is a rattling or clicking. Next, you are likely to hear loud grinding noise.
It may sound like the growl from an injured animal as well. In case you hear this growling or grinding when you press your brake pedal, it shows that the brake pads are not only worn, but they should be replaced.
The growling or grinding sound is as a result of the metal caliper and metal disc rubbing each other. It only occurs when a brake pad is entirely worn out. And the more you drive with the caliper and disc grinding on each other, the more harm you’ll do to the whole brake system.
Once you hear a grinding sound, it means you have to replace brake pads and the rotors as well. Or at least get them turned in a certified brake repair shop. Therefore, you should replace the brake pads before you hear the growling or grinding sound.

6. Rattling or Clicking Noise
If you hear any rattling or clicking noise underneath your vehicle, then that is a quick warning sign that your brakes may not be in good shape. Usually, this occurs when pressure is applied to the brakes of your car.
Nowadays, all car manufacturers install a device which prevents the brake pads from rattling when your brakes are depressed. That is until the brake pads begin to wear out. When you hear a rattling or clicking noise when applying the brakes, it’s meant to alert you that your car needs new brake pads.

7. The Car is Pulling to One Side
One of the common warning signs that your brake pads are wearing out and may require replacement is that your vehicle will start pulling to the right or left while you are driving. The quickest way to determine if the brake pads are damaged, just press the brake pedal without turning a steering wheel.
Remember, the car could be pulling to one side for some reasons other than the faulty brakes. So, it’s highly recommended you take a car to the nearest brake repair shop. If the vehicle veers to the one side, then the brake pads are wearing out unequally and should be replaced.

Those are the seven key signs that your car might be crying out for new brake pads. Remember, your brakes are super important for keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your car’s brakes.

If you’ve noticed any of these signs while driving, don’t panic! But also, don’t ignore them. Your car is trying to tell you something important. Why not give the friendly team at Canadian Super Shop a call? They’re the pros when it comes to all things brakes.

Don’t wait until you hear that awful grinding noise or feel your car pulling to one side. Pop into Canadian Super Shop today for a quick brake check. Their expert mechanics will make sure your brakes are in tip-top shape, so you can drive with peace of mind. Your safety is worth it!