The importance of having effective, high-quality brakes on your vehicle.

(Note: This feature incorporates sponsored content).

All cars have brakes, of course, among the most critical of safety components, and it’s crucial to comprehend what they do. Many people are unaware of how a car’s braking system operates. With a disc brake set-up, as used in most modern vehicles, when you press the brake pedal, the caliper forces the brake pads against the rotating brake discs installed in a vehicle’s braking system. This ultimately slows the car down and brings it to a complete stop.

Unlike metropolitan areas, motorways demand less braking because in urban driving you have to halt at traffic intersections, junctions, crossings, traffic signals, etc. Vehicle brakes & spares are likely the most used component in a car, and by their nature (working by friction) they do wear in time, so it is advisable to keep up with your brake servicing and repair brake parts as needed, as they are essential on every occasion when you need to slow or stop your vehicle…

The condition of the brake pads and how the car is operated determine how long they last – and some cheaper/poor quality brake pads tend to deteriorate more quickly.

How can you tell whether your vehicle needs new brake components?

You can tell when your car needs new brake components by checking out the following aspects. Safety First! If in any doubt, have the vehicle examined by a reputable mechanic…

• A scraping and/or squealing noise usually indicates that something needs to be replaced. Old, worn-out pad surfaces rubbing or pressing against the discs cause the screeching. The car should not create noises like grinding, whining, screeching, or clicking. Remember that any noise the brakes make signals that examination is needed and, often, brake pads (and possibly discs) replacement is required (always renew in axle sets!)
• Replacing your car’s brakes is an urgent task if the vehicle doesn’t slow adequately or stop when you press down on the brake pedal. When applying the brakes, if the vehicle feels bouncy, or vibrates or pulsates, this could indicate that the brake discs are warped from heat buildup (made worse by excessive wear). If in good condition the brake discs help the vehicle to stop correctly and smoothly. Check the pads and discs (or have them checked) frequently to ensure that they are thick enough; worn (thin) pads and discs result in poor braking!
• When you press the brake pedal, your car may pull to one side on its own, indicating that the discs and pads on one side have worn more than the other, or there may be a problem with the hydraulics. Either way this is risky because your car shouldn’t be turning unless you are the one guiding it!

When you take your car in for a full service or a thorough diagnostic test, you should always have the brakes fully checked because they are crucial. Any wear/damage needs to be rectified right away to avoid accidents.

Essential Factors relating to Vehicle Brakes and Spares:

Typical Lifespan

A pair of brake pads typically last 30,000 kilometres (20,000 miles), though this amount can vary based on how, where, and how frequently your car is driven.

Longevity of The Brake Discs

The longevity of your brakes can be based on how frequently you have to apply the brakes due to traffic lights, stoplights, pedestrians, trams, etc. If you drive mainly on motorways/highways, your brake pads may last longer, compared with driving predominantly on city streets.

Quality of Brake Pads

High-quality brake pads are essential since inferior types will wear out quicker. Brakes (pads and discs) will last longer if you plan ahead when driving and avoid fierce braking

Conclusion:

Ask your technician which brake pads are best for your car, and request a complete check to ensure that the brakes are in A1 condition, ready to stop your vehicle at any time. There are several online stores offering quality vehicle parts. Ensure you purchase from a reliable and reputable distributor.