Your brakes are the single most important safety system on your vehicle, and worn brake pads are one of the most common causes of accidents that could have been avoided. The good news is that brake pads almost always warn you before they fail completely.

1. Squealing or screeching noises

Most pads have a small metal wear indicator that rubs against the rotor and produces a high-pitched squeal when the friction material gets thin. If you hear this every time you drive, your pads are due for replacement.

2. Grinding metal sound

A harsh grinding noise usually means the pad material is completely gone and metal is touching metal. This damages the rotor quickly, so stop driving and replace them immediately.

3. Longer stopping distance

If the car takes noticeably longer to stop, the pads have lost their bite. Never ignore reduced braking performance.

4. Vibration when braking

A pulsing brake pedal often points to unevenly worn pads or warped rotors.

5. Thin pads on inspection

Look through the wheel spokes — if the pad is less than 3mm (1/8 inch) thick, order a new set. At Steve AutoParts we stock OEM and performance pads for most makes and models.