In this guide, we will go through a guide on how to replace brake pads of your truck. Brake failure is a major cause of most accidents. In the United States, 300,000 car crashes result from brake failure. It is thus essential to protect yourself and other road users by maintaining your brakes.
The brake pads are one of the basic components of the braking system that are in pairs per wheel. The primary role of the brake pads is to press against the rotor to create friction to stop your truck. They are made of various materials such as metal, ceramic or organic materials. Its surface has a special material that creates friction when you press the brake pedal.
Signs You Need To Replace Brake Pads Of Your Truck
Brake pads wear out with time, just like other mechanical parts of your truck. When worn out, they become less effective, making it difficult to control your truck. As a truck owner, it is necessary to perform a regular brake pad inspection to be sure they are working perfectly. If broken, you need to replace brake pads of your truck.
Apart from regular maintenance and replacements, avoid sudden and aggressive braking, as such habits reduce the lifespan of your brake pads. Here are the common signs that your brake pads need a replacement.
Grinding Noises
Braking should be as silent as possible, especially when driving at a lower speed. When you hear screeching noises whenever you gently press your brake pedal is an indication that the pads are worn out. The sounds result from the friction between the brake pad and the rotor. Address it as soon as possible. If you ignore it, your brake rotors will be damaged.
Your Truck Takes Time To Respond
Brakes should be very responsive, but when you press the brake pedal, but your truck takes time to stop, it indicates that your pads are worn out, and you should replace them. Such a problem can be dangerous when you need to stop abruptly. Consider checking your brake pads whenever you realize your truck is taking time to stop.
Vibrating Brake Pedal
If your brake pads are worn out, the pedal will vibrate whenever you press them. The vibration usually results from damaged brake rotors that lead to uneven wear of the brake pads. When you feel such vibrations, you must check your brake pads and replace them when necessary.
Warning Lights On The Dashboard
Modern trucks have brake pad wear sensors that will turn on the brake warning lights on your dashboard whenever the pads are worn out. The appearance of such light is a reminder that you should replace your brake pads.
When To Replace Brake Pads
After covering 50,000 to 70,000 kilometers, your truck will need new brake pads. But other factors, such as poor driving habits, can fasten the rate at which your pads wear out.
Conclusion
Truck brake pads are the braking system parts that are in friction with the brake rotors. Due to friction, it wears out and needs a replacement. When worn out, you will experience some of these signs. The lifespan of your brake pads solely depends on your driving habits and how often you use your truck. Shared in this guide is how to replace brake pads with ease.