Every driver’s nightmare is pressing the brake pedal one day and the car not slowing down. This kind of severe brake failure is fortunately rare, but you can further minimize your risk with regular brake inspections and timely brake pad replacements. When you detect any of the following warning signs, always have the worn-out pads promptly replaced with new brake pads at your local Porsche Service Center.
5 Signs Your Porsche Needs New Brake Pads
Brake Pad Warning Light
Your vehicle may have sensors and a corresponding warning light that appears on your dashboard whenever a brake pad is nearing its end. As with any dashboard warnings, it’s best not to ignore this light; ask a trusted technician to inspect and replace the dying pad right away.
Thin-Looking Brake Pads
Whenever you crouch to check the air pressure inside each tire, you can also peer between the wheel spokes to inspect the brake pads. If the friction layer on a pad appears to be less than a quarter-inch thick, it’s probably time to replace it with a new pad.
High-Pitched Squeaking
Once almost finished, modern brake pads are typically designed to alert you with a high-pitched squeaking or squealing noise. This unmistakable sound is generated by a tiny metal tab scraping against the rotor.
Grinding or Growling Sounds
If you forget to replace a worn-out brake pad in time, the friction layer will eventually get completely scraped away. That leaves only the steel casing to press directly against the rotor disc, which will rapidly damage the rotor. If this occurs, you’ll hear deep grinding or growling when you apply the brakes. You might also feel vibrations from the scored rotor.
Reduced Brake Force
If your car loses its full stopping strength, even momentarily, pull over and inspect your brake pads. If you’ve been driving down steep mountainous roads or in heavy stop-and-go traffic requiring continual braking without pause, your brake pads could be overheating. Alternatively, you might have a brake fluid leak on your hands.
Technicians at Your Porsche Service Center Can Inspect Your Brake Pads
A proper inspection of the brake pads means raising the vehicle to remove the wheels, rotors, calipers, and pads. The brake lines and fluid will also be checked and maintained.
After examining everything, our technicians can let you know how your brake pads are faring and how much longer they’re likely to last. It’s advisable to have your brakes thoroughly inspected twice a year or more.
You’ll stay safe on the road with quick brake pad replacement and routine inspections. Visit our Porsche Service Center Los Gatos, today to have these services carried out by qualified professionals. We strive to provide the region’s drivers with exceptional vehicles, maintenance, repairs, and customer care.
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