The five signs
- Squealing: wear indicators telling you pads are getting low
- Grinding: pads may be worn to metal and damaging the rotors
- Pulsing pedal: rotors may be warped or unevenly worn
- Soft or sinking pedal: possible air or a leak in the hydraulic system
- Pulling to one side: a sticking caliper or uneven pad wear
How long do brake pads last?
It depends on driving and vehicle weight. Stop-and-go city traffic and towing wear pads faster than highway miles. Your technician can measure pad thickness at every visit.
What a brake service includes
A proper brake service measures pad and rotor thickness, checks fluid condition, inspects calipers and hoses, and tells you what's needed now versus later.
Pro tip from our team
Ask for the measured pad thickness in millimeters. It turns 'you need brakes' into a number you can understand.
General information for Houston-area drivers, not legal, tax or financial advice. Program terms, laws and fees change; confirm current details with our team or the official source.
