Brake pads are a vital part of your Kia’s braking system. They are also a component with a limited lifespan. They wear out as they work, and they have to be replaced regularly. As your local Kia dealer, we’d like to tell you more about how important they are for your safety and how often they need to be replaced.
What Do the Pads Do?
The pads fit into the brake calipers. When you use the brakes, pressurized brake fluid forces the calipers against the wheel rotors. The pads have friction material coverings. These coverings generate friction against the smooth rotors and bring them to a stop. The friction material will wear off as time passes, and the pads will need to be replaced.
How Often Do You Change the Pads?
On average, your pads are good for 30,000 to 50,000 miles before they need replacement. Your car manual will give you the exact replacement time for your particular model. The pads can also wear out faster depending on driving conditions, frequency of braking, and how hard you apply the brakes.
The pads are 1/2″ thick when they’re new, and they wear slightly each time you use the brakes. When the pads reach a thickness of 1/4″, they need to be replaced.
Signs You Need To Replace Your Pads
Glazed Pads
Pads become glazed due to extended contact with the wheel rotors. If you ride your brakes, the pads are kept in contact with the rotors. This produces more friction than they’re designed for. The surface of the pads becomes smooth and glass-like, and sections of the rotor develop a rough texture. Glazed pads don’t provide friction anymore, and this means they need to be replaced ASAP for your safety.
Screeching Pads
As we’ve seen, the pads slowly wear down. When your pads reach a thickness of 1/4″, a metal spike becomes visible inside the pad. This spike is built into the pad by the manufacturer as a warning. The next time you apply the brakes, the metal spike will scratch against the rotor and produce a harsh screeching sound. When you hear this, it’s time to replace your pads.
Grinding Noises
If the pads aren’t replaced when they screech, they will continue to wear down. Once the material covering has worn off, you’ll hear a harsh grinding noise. This is the sound of the metal pads damaging the surface of the rotors. Your pads would need to be replaced immediately. Our technicians will also check your rotors for signs of damage that may need repair.
Pads are quick and easy to install. Call us today at Superior Kia.
Image courtesy of Gustavo Fring via Pexels
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Warranties include 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain and 5-year/60,000-mile basic. All warranties and roadside assistance are limited. See retailer for warranty details.