Your brakes will make squeaking or squealing noises when you use them when the brake pads have become worn or thin and the metal begins to scrape against metal. If you hear such sounds, it’s important to get trained technicians to take a look at your brake pads to see if they need replacing as soon as you can.

Some brake pads are created with built-in metal wear detectors that let out a grinding sound when it’s time to replace your brake pads so you know that they’re starting to wear thin. While not as immediately important as hearing squeaking or squealing, it’s still a clear sign that it’s time to get your brake pads replaced.

Vibrations when you put on the brakes can be a sign that your rotors have become damaged, which is caused by the brake pads also being damaged and causing the rotors, which your brake pads work in tandem with, damaging the rotors as well. If you feel vibrations when you try to brake, get trained technicians to check your brake pads for damage.

When your brake pads are worn down, it takes longer for you pressing on the brake pads to translate into actually braking. If you notice that you have to push more on the brake pedal to get a reaction, it’s time to get your brake pads looked at and likely replaced.

If you suspect your brake pads might be wearing out, take a closer look at them. Visibly thinner brake pads are a sign that they’re getting worn out, and therefore need to be replaced sooner rather than later.