Brake Pads Service Near Los Angeles, CA

Understanding the Different Types of Brake Pads

There are three main types of brake pads commonly used. All of them are engineered in the same way with a solid steel backing plate and friction material bonded to it. The difference in materials put the pads into the following three categories.

• Organic or non-metallic: This first type of pad blends synthetic materials like sintered glass, cellulose, or aramid, among other compounds into a relatively soft and quiet material that is less damaging to the rotors, but the tradeoff is that these pads will wear out faster than the other types of brake pads.
• Semi-metallic: The second type of pad consists of a combination of metals like steel, iron, and copper mixed with compounds and fillers. They have more longevity than type one, but they are noisier and harder on the rotors.
• Ceramic: The final type of brake pad combines elements like clay and porcelain with copper fibers for quieter stopping, extended wear life, and resistance to rotor damage.

Whichever type you use, they will all eventually wear down, so the best way to determine if your brakes are worn down and are in need of replacement is with a visual inspection. When the wheel has been removed, look at the condition of the rotors and measure the thickness of the friction materials. Most pads begin with 8/32”-12/32” of friction material, not including the plate. When the material has worn down to 3/32” or less you need to replace the pads.

Symptoms of Worn Brakes

If you don’t want to go to the trouble of removing the wheels and measuring, you can look for the following signs and symptoms that your pads may need replacement:

• Squealing when slowing or stopping.
• Grinding when you drive and brake.
• Extended stopping times and distances.
• Groves in the surface of the rotors.
• Pulsation in the pedal.
• Pulling to one side or the other when driving or braking.

If you notice any of these symptoms or conditions, you probably need brake pad service. Your brakes are the most important safety features on your vehicle, so you want to be sure to keep them in good shape for your safety and for the safety of others on the road.