FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Pay attention. Sounds, smells and sensations signal brake problems:
- Screeching, grinding, squealing, rubbing, and other eardrum-piercing noises are common indicators that your brake pads & shoes require inspection. This should be addressed before worn pads cause damage to other parts, which could result in more expensive repairs.
- Vibration and pulsation in the pedal or your steering wheel. If this is a familiar feeling, your brake system is telling you something. Wait any longer, and your rotors might get warped from the metal on metal rubbing, potentially costing you a lot more in repair. Stop in as soon as possible if you are experiencing this unpleasant problem.
- Pressing down farther to complete braking functions. This symptom is not as prevalent as it used to be, but if you’re pressing down farther than usual on your brake pedal to stop your car, requiring more pressure and time to perform the same stopping function, you have entered the first stage and sign of brake pad wear. Don’t play around with your brake pedal, you can only press so far before you’re in a frightening, "I have no brakes" predicament.
- That pungent burning smell near your tires is screaming "help!" If you’re detecting noxious odors emitting from your tires, stop what you’re doing and please call or visit your local Firestone Complete Auto Care. Unfamiliar and pungent smells, such as what you’re experiencing, are not normal and could have dangerous consequences if you continue to drive under these unsafe conditions. Your best solution is our brake inspection to see what part of your braking system has been compromised while driving with this smelly symptom.
- Brake warning light. If your brake warning light comes on visit us as soon as possible and ask us to perform a free brake inspection.
When your calipers are worn out, the brake pads will wear unevenly. If they are thinner on one side, this might be a sign of a run-down caliper. Another sign could be reduced brake power when you press the pedal.
It’s good to go ahead and replace your caliper pins if they show signs of corrosion, oxidation, deteriorated rubber, or lots of wear and tear. Another reason to replace these pins is if they are stuck or jammed. This positioning can cause damage that requires them to be replaced. Failing to change them can become a driving safety hazard.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It depends on a number of factors, including the type of brake pads on the vehicle, driving habits, and road conditions. However, as a general rule of thumb, brake pads need to be replaced every 25,000-65,000 miles.
Here are some tips to help you extend the life of your brake pads:
- Avoid hard braking or rapidly accelerating from a stop.
- Give yourself time to naturally coast whenever possible, which allows the engine to decelerate and brake itself.
- Include regular brake inspections and service by a qualified mechanic in your preventative maintenance routine.
If you are unsure when your brake pads need to be replaced, it is always best to err on the side of caution and have them checked by a professional as soon as you can.
The general recommendation is that brakes should be serviced every 12,000‐18,000 miles. But your vehicle may need it more often, depending on your driving habits and the road/weather conditions in which you normally drive.
Routine brake service usually includes a thorough brake system inspection. Next, the brakes will be lubricated and adjusted as needed. The brake pads and rotors may also need to be replaced at regular intervals.
It is typically recommended to replace your brake shoes every 30,000 miles or when they reach 3/32” of wear.
Disc brake seals should be replaced if you notice fluid leakage, reduced braking performance, sponginess in the brake lever, or if the seals appear worn or damaged during routine inspection.
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