One of the first indicators that your brake pads are wearing out is a high-pitched squeaking or squealing noise when you apply the brakes. This noise is often caused by a wear indicator built into the brake pads, which produces a sound when the pads have worn down to a certain level.

A grinding noise when you brake is a serious sign that your brake pads are extremely worn. This sound occurs when the metal backing of the brake pad comes into contact with the brake rotor. If you hear grinding, it’s essential to have your brake pads replaced immediately.

If your brakes feel less responsive or you notice your car taking longer to stop, it could be due to worn brake pads. As the pads wear down, they lose their ability to create the necessary friction, decreasing braking efficiency.

If you feel a vibration or pulsation through the brake pedal when you apply the brakes, it may indicate that your brake pads are unevenly worn or that your brake rotors are warped.

You can visually inspect your brake pads through the spokes of your wheels. If the pads appear less than 1/4 inch thick, it’s time to have them replaced. Thin brake pads won’t provide the necessary friction to stop your vehicle effectively, so don’t wait until they wear down completely.