I’ve been feeling like my brake system is getting weaker lately. Here’s a picture of my brake pads:
Should I replace them now or wait a little longer?
Should I replace them now or wait a little longer?
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Looking at your picture, the pad on the right seems really thin. I’d say the time to replace is now, especially if you’ve noticed weaker brakes.
Ameliscarlet said:
Looking at your picture, the pad on the right seems really thin. I’d say the time to replace is now, especially if you’ve noticed weaker brakes.
Do you not check the manufacturer’s minimum specs? It looks close, but measuring is the best way to know for sure.
@Jaden
Measuring is ideal, but not everyone has the tools or time. If the pad is as thin as the backing plate, I’d recommend changing it regardless. Waiting too long risks damaging the rotors.
That wear looks uneven. This might mean the pads are sticking in the caliper. It’s best to replace them before they wear down to the metal. Also, it sounds like the brakes need maintenance to fix the uneven wear.
@Cory
Sounds like a sticking caliper to me.
In the first picture, the pad on the right looks really worn. The uneven wear is also a concern. Make sure to clean and lube the caliper pins, and if the piston doesn’t push back easily, you might need a new caliper.
You’ve got the new pads right there… just swap them in.
Since you already have the pads out, you might as well replace them. Don’t forget to lube the slide pins to prevent uneven wear.
They’re already off. Just replace them.
Brakes are only as strong as the thinnest pad, and that one’s looking pretty thin.
Replace those now unless you’re planning to do rotors too. Those pads look like they’ve done their job and then some.
- Pads are wearing unevenly.
- One pad looks like it’s about to fail.
- If the rotors haven’t been replaced recently, it’s probably time to do those too.
- You mentioned weaker braking, so check the front brakes as well since they handle most of the stopping power.
It seems like perfect timing to replace them. Your mechanic gave you a heads-up, and you’ve noticed the weaker braking.
Everyone’s guessing here. Measure all four rear pads and check for uneven wear. If the thinnest pad is close to the manufacturer’s minimum spec, it’s time to replace. Rear brakes usually last longer, but weaker braking could also mean it’s time to flush the brake fluid.
The pad on the bottom in the first picture is very thin. Replace them now.
The left pad looks okay, but the right one is worn. If you have the time and budget, it’s always better to keep them fresh.
That’s some serious uneven wear.
Uneven wear like that usually means something is sticking. Check the calipers before replacing the pads and rotors.