Too lazy to replace your vehicle’s brake pads? This is a series of lurking dangers

Jakarta (ANTARA) – With use, the brake lining will become thinner and lose braking efficiency. This condition means that the braking system no longer functions optimally, resulting in an increase in the vehicle’s stopping distance and a greater risk in emergency situations.

However, quite a few drivers postpone the replacement because they consider it trivial. This decision, in fact, can entail several serious risks, ranging from fatal accidents to death, both for drivers and other road users.

Signs that the brake pads are worn

1. The braking distance becomes longer and the brakes become less grippy

Thin brake linings weaken the grip on the disc or drum, so the vehicle requires a longer distance to stop. Even in sudden conditions, the brakes can become less grippy, reducing control and increasing the risk of an accident.

2. Damage occurs to other brake components

Once the coating wears off, the metal or iron of the coating backing can immediately rub against the record or drum, causing scratches, vibrations, and even warping. This damage results in the need for larger component repairs, which obviously cost more money.

Read also: Five signs that your brake linings need to be replaced

3. Overheating of the brake system and risk of brake failure

Brake thinning forces the braking system to work very hard, leaving excess heat (overheating) or what is called brake fade, which triggers a loss of traction and response. Under severe conditions, completely worn linings can cause the brakes to “fail” and fail to function.

4. Uncomfortable vibrations and sounds

Other typical symptoms are squeaking when braking and vibrations on the brake pedal or lever, a sign that the coating is thin and the surface is uneven. This not only disturbs comfort, but also indicates problems with other brake components.

5. Loss of control and potential accidents

When the brakes fail to respond, especially in slippery road conditions or in emergency situations, the risk of an accident increases dramatically. Worn brake pads make vehicle control unstable, resulting in serious collisions.

A sign that the brake linings need to be replaced

• The brake pedal/seam is deeper than usual

• A grinding or whistling sound is heard during braking

• A burning smell comes from the brake area

• Brake sensors activate dashboard indicators (modern vehicles)

• Vibrations when braking, both at the steering wheel and at the pedals

Read also: Bendix expands network in West Java through collaboration with local workshops

Recommendations and preventive measures

• Periodically check the thickness of the coating: every 10,000–20,000 km or six months depending on the type and conditions of use; faster if you often go through traffic jams or have sudden braking.

• Use original/authorized replacement parts to maintain quality and compatibility. Non-genuine pads tend to be hard, wear out the disc quickly and produce noise.

• Replace the front and rear pads together, or right and left on the same axle, so that the braking distribution is balanced.

Ignoring thin brake linings is not just a small oversight, but a warning sign. The effects can be widespread and range from reduced braking performance to damage to other components such as discs or calipers, which ultimately increase the risk of accidents.

Therefore, it is important to replace the brake linings regularly based on the results of vehicle condition monitoring. Always use original spare parts to ensure braking performance remains optimal and driving safety is guaranteed.

Read also: The importance of choosing brake pads based on your motorbike