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Brake Components

mechanic working of the brake system of a car

✅ 1. Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing

  • Squeaking or squealing brakes — caused by wear indicators rubbing on the rotor, signaling low brake pad thickness 

  • Grinding or growling noise — metal-on-metal contact; pads worn through to the backing plate 

  • Reduced braking performance or increased stopping distance — worn pads reduce friction, increasing stopping time 

  • Vibrating or pulsating brake pedal — from uneven pad wear or warped rotors causing shaking on brake application 

  • Visible pad wear (< ¼″ / ~6 mm) — inspect through wheel spokes; thin friction material indicates replacement

⏱️ 2. Recommended Brake Pad Replacement Interval

  • Most brake pads last 30,000–70,000 miles, depending on driving style, vehicle, and pad quality

  • Visual inspection recommended every 5,000 miles, and a professional brake check at least annually

🛠️ 3. How to Know if Brake Rotors Are Worn

  • Look for rotor grooves, cracks, glazing, or warping—can cause vibration and uneven braking 

  • Persistent squealing or grinding after changing pads means rotor damage 

  • Brake pedal pulsation is often due to rotor warping—may need resurfacing or replacement

💧 4. Understanding Brake Fluid & Maintenance

  • Brake fluid is hydraulic; transmits pedal force to brake mechanics

  • It’s hygroscopic—absorbs moisture, lowering boiling point and risking brake fade 

  • Recommended fluid replacement every 2 years or ~30,000 miles, or sooner in extreme conditions

🧩 5. Warning Signs of a Failing Brake Master Cylinder

  • Soft or spongy brake pedal, sinking to the floor under pressure

  • Brake fluid leaks near the master cylinder or under the vehicle

  • Dashboard brake warning lights illuminated

  • Uneven braking performance or pulling — immediate inspection needed

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