Most brake pads should last about 50,000 km. How long they really last will depend on things like how you drive, where you drive most, and the vehicle itself.
About every 16,000 km, the brakes should be checked. When they start making noises like squeaking, squealing, or grinding, or when they pull to one side, these are also signs. Usually, you have to lift the car up and take off the front wheels to check the brake linings.
In this article, we will show you how to quickly measure the thickness of the pad linings without taking the wheels off. When the lining is worn down to the steel backing, the brakes will grind. This is a sure sign that you need new brake pads without having to measure.
You’ll need a Straw, a marking pen, and scissors.
1 – Using the ruler method, first, run the straw in between the brake pads and the brake base.
2 – To achieve the most precise reading, place a mark on the straw as close to the brake pad edge as you can.
3 – The specified spot is where you should cut the straw.
4 – Put the straw’s severed end next to the ruler and make a mark 5 mm from the end.
4 – Final measurements should be taken with the millimeter indicator set to zero.
Changing your brake pads is a good idea if they are 4mm or less in thickness.
Method 2:
To check the brake pads without removing the wheel, you will need to do the following:
- Locate the brake caliper, which is the component that holds the brake pads. It is typically located near the top of the tire, on the inside of the car.
- Inspect the brake pads through the spaces between the spokes of the wheel. You should be able to see the pads through these spaces, even if you cannot see the caliper itself.
- Look for the thickness of the brake pads. The pads should be at least 1/4 inch thick. If they are thinner than this, they may need to be replaced.
- Look for any visible damage on the pads, such as cracks or excessive wear.
- If you cannot see the pads or the caliper clearly, you may need to jack up the car and remove the wheel to get a better view. It is important to be careful when jacking up the car and supporting it with jack stands, as improperly supporting the vehicle can be dangerous.
- Once you have finished inspecting the pads, be sure to lower the car back down and properly secure the wheel before driving the car.
How to Change Brake Pads without Taking the Tires Off: Key Points
Before answering the question, “How do I check the brake pads without taking the tires off?” Some of the things on this list are important for us to know.
- Why do we need to look at the brake pads?
- When should the brake pads be checked?
- What are the signs that you need new brake pads?
- When should the brake pads be changed?
Let’s get the answers to these questions as soon as possible:
Why Do We Need to Check the Brake Pads?
The brakes are an important part of a car. It’s always important to know if your car’s brakes are working well or not. Checking the brake pads every so often can keep you from having major brake problems.
When Should the Brake Pads Be Checked?
The brakes are an important part of a car. It’s always important to know if your car’s brakes are working well or not. Checking the brake pads every so often can keep you from having major brake problems.
What are the signs that you need new brake pads?
There are some clear signs that your brake pads need to be replaced.
- Unresponsive brakes
- Noisy brakes
- Spongy brakes
- One side of the car slides
- A change in the number of miles driven
- Modern cars have brake lights that light up.
When should the brake pads be changed?
When you use your car’s brakes a lot, the brake pads wear down. If you check your brake pads and find that they are worn down, it’s time to change the brake pads on your car’s tires.
Conclusion
After reading this article, it shouldn’t be hard for car owners to check the brake pads without taking the tire off. Even though brakes are always important for driving, it must be a serious concern to check the brake pads on and off to avoid any kind of danger.
You might want to see this:
- Tips for Preventing Squeaking Noise While Driving But Not Brakes Applied
- IS A BRAKE FLUID FLUSH NECESSARY?
- Why have Brake Pads Worn Out In 3 Months?
About The Author
Ibrar Ayyub
I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.
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