1 week Ago By Luke Chillingsworth
Leading mechanic Scotty Kilmer stressed a scraping sound every time motorists brake could indicate a major problem. Brake pads are flat pieces of steel with a thick friction material layer used to slow down a petrol or diesel car. Every time drivers brake, the pad gets slightly worn until eventually it is no longer fit for purpose.
At this stage, motorists will be doing damage to their actual brake discs which can lead to costly repairs and could be dangerous. Scotty previously issued the warning on his YouTube channel as he urged road users to “stop immediately” if they feel an issue could be developing. He said: “Today I’m going to show you how to tell if your brake pads are wearing out.
"Now your brake pads squeeze your rotors to stop the car using friction. Eventually, friction wears the pad material off. “Now if you start hearing squeaks every time you hit the brakes pull off the wheel and check.
“If the brake pad material is getting thinner than a dime, time to change your pads. “And if you hear a crunching sound when you step on the brakes you went too far, it's too late. “It would eat up the pads and the rotors then you got to buy something you didn't have to in the first place.
“But if they’re making horrible noises. Stop and fix it immediately. I had a guy who kept driving it, he went so far the hub fell off.
” Replacing both the front and rear brake pads will usually set drivers back anywhere between £210 and £500. Final costs can depend on the make and model of the vehicle and the extent of the damage to the components. Breakdown experts at the RAC stressed many modern vehicles are fitted with sensors with warning lights likely to appear if there are any problems.
Brake pad lifespans can dramatically vary but specialists warn motorists can play a role in extending their use. The RAC explained: “There are no hard and fast rules on this. A set of brake pads can last from anywhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles – possibly more.
“A major factor in the lifespan of the pads is down to the way the vehicle is driven.”.
