Not just the right way, the Fair Way
Not just the right way, the Fair Way
Kingshighway
5208 S. Kingshighway Blvd,
St Louis, MO 63109
314-352-6317
As a local, family owned auto mechanic repair shop in St. Louis, we have seen a lot of brake issues. Brake issues are one of the most important safety features of your vehicle and they help you stay safe on the road. It is crucial that you maintain your brakes and their performance.
Brake pads should be changed around every 50,000 miles, and rotating your brake pads every 6 months is a great practice to help prolong the life of your pads. Maintaining your brake pads, as well as keeping an eye out for the indicators that signal issues with brake pads can save a lot of money and help to keep you safe on the road.
Brake pads are designed to press against the brake rotors, creating the friction needed to slow down or stop your car. Each wheel typically has two pads — inner and outer — making a total of eight pads on most vehicles. When you hit the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces these pads against the rotors. Over time, this friction wears them down.
Brake pads generally need replacement every 50,000 miles, but that can vary based on driving habits, terrain, and vehicle type. Rotating them every 6 months can extend their life and save you money in the long run.
Not always. Because the front brakes handle more of the braking load, front pads wear out faster than the rear. Uneven wear between the left and right sides can also happen — often due to caliper issues, warped rotors, or improper installation.
If your brake pads are wearing unevenly, don’t just replace them blindly. That could be masking a deeper mechanical issue. Bring your vehicle to Fairway Automotive for a free brake inspection — we’ll identify the root cause and offer a safe solution.
|
Issue |
Description |
Action Needed |
Squeaking or Screeching Brakes |
Indicates worn brake pads due to metal wear indicators. |
Replace brake pads. |
Grinding Sound |
Metal plate rubbing against the rotor, showing pads are fully worn out. |
Replace brake pads immediately. |
Indicator Light On |
Sensors in modern cars notify when brake pads are low. |
Inspect brake pads professionally. |
Brake Pedal Vibration |
Caused by warped rotors or improper braking. |
Check and replace rotors or pads. |
Visible Pad Wear |
Pads less than a quarter inch thick signal replacement is needed. |
Inspect and replace pads. |
Brake Fluid Puddles |
Leak in the braking system often seen under the car. |
Fix leaks and refill brake fluid. |
Pulling to One Side |
Uneven brake lining wear or foreign matter in fluid. |
Adjust linings or replace fluid. |
Slow Brake Response |
Caused by leaks, air in the system, or worn pads. |
Check the brake system and refill fluid if needed. |
Overly Sensitive Brakes |
Could mean rotor issues or brake fluid imbalance. |
Inspect rotors or perform fluid exchange. |
Here are the red flags:
Ignoring brake issues can lead to dangerous driving situations and more expensive repairs. If you’re unsure whether your brake pads are in good shape, let our team at Fairway Automotive in St. Louis inspect them. We’ll ensure your vehicle is road-ready, safe, and reliable — no guesswork involved.
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Brake pads typically need replacement every 40,000 to 50,000 miles. However, the exact timing depends on your vehicle type, driving habits, and road conditions. It’s best to get them inspected regularly to avoid unexpected issues.
If you hear squeaking, grinding noises, or feel vibrations when braking, your brake pads might be worn out. A brake warning light, burning smell, or longer stopping distance can also indicate that it’s time for a replacement.
Driving with worn brake pads is risky. It reduces your ability to stop safely and can cause damage to the rotors, leading to more expensive repairs. It’s important to get them checked and replaced as soon as possible.
No, front brake pads usually wear out faster than the rear ones because they handle more braking pressure. Sometimes, uneven wear between the left and right sides can happen too, which might signal an issue with the calipers or rotors.