Can I Replace Just my Brake Pads?

Brake pads are one of the most frequently replaced parts on a vehicle. Every time you press the brake pedal, they manage your vehicle’s weight and the inertia generated while bringing you to a complete stop. Although replacing brake pads is a crucial step in braking system maintenance, it’s not always the entire story. In this article, learn what to expect from a full brake service, and how to identify if replacing only your brake pads is an option.

Knowing Your Brake Pads

On many bicycles, you can see the brake pads: they’re located over each wheel. When you engage the hand brake, the brake pads close in on the bicycle’s wheel, slowing the bicycle until it’s stopped.

Motor vehicles follow the same principle: you push on the brake pedal in the cabin, and brake pads clamp down on brake rotors to bring your car to a stop.

Brake pads in motor vehicles, though, have nothing “pad-like” about them. They are manufactured from ceramic, semi-metallic, or organic compounds that can withstand extreme heat and pressure.

Over time, the constant use will wear the brake pads down, which is actually part of their design. (Think of a bike helmet that’s supposed to break on impact to protect the wearer’s head.) Many drivers, particularly those who frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, tough road conditions, or operate heavier vehicles, must replace their brake pads every 30,000 to 60,000 kilometers.

Signs of Brake Pad Wear

Do you hear a constant high-pitched squeal when you hit your brakes? That’s because brake pads carry a built-in wear indicator that creates this sound to alert the driver that it may be time for a replacement.

Ignoring the squealing sound leads to a grinding sound of metal-on-metal. This sound means the brake pads have completely worn down and are actively damaging the rotors. Take your car in immediately and expect a full brake service.

Is it Possible to Just Replace the Brake Pads?

An automotive technician will likely insist on a brake inspection when you take your vehicle in for a brake pad replacement. This makes sense: many components of the brake system are deep inside the car, and you may not immediately notice if something is wrong. Skipping an inspection can lead to safety issues and costly replacements.

For example, improperly matched new brake pads on bad rotors can wear out within a matter of months and bring you back to square one. But this time, with more damage to your braking system and higher costs.

If the components of the braking system are in good condition, replacing only your brake pads can be a safe and affordable option. If your technician is recommending an out-of-budget repair, you can always request a pad-only service to prioritize short-term costs, so long as it’s not at the expense of safety.

An expert should always let you know what they find and provide insight on whether it’s worth considering additional work or scheduling a later repair. But ultimately, having your brakes fully serviced will significantly cut long-term costs.

What to expect from a full brake inspection

The technician will lift the vehicle onto a hoist and remove the wheels to examine the brake components. Below you’ll find a list of what an automotive technician is looking for.

Brake Pads

Technicians typically evaluate brake pad thickness and wear patterns on your brake pads first. Uneven wear may point to issues with sticking calipers or poor alignment.

Rotors

Rotors must be smooth, thick, and free from any grooves or warping. Avoid installing new brake pads on damaged or undersized rotors: it can result in uneven braking, vibrations, pulsing, and premature pad wear.

Rotors with minimal damage can be resurfaced rather than replaced. But in many cases, replacement is a safer and more cost-effective option.

Calipers

Calipers that stick or unevenly distribute pressure can cause reduced stopping power, uneven wear, and pulling to one side during vehicle handling.

Technicians often remove the caliper at this point to inspect the brake pads more closely if replacement is needed. They will also clean and lubricate the caliper pins and replace any that are stuck or leaking.

Brake Hoses

Moving the caliper allows for inspection of the brake hose for cracks, leaks, soft spots, swelling, kinks, and twists that may impede brake fluid flow.

Any escape of brake fluid is a serious issue that compromises the entire hydraulic system needed to use your brakes in the first place. Any damage found must be addressed immediately.

Brake Fluid

Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, which can lead to internal corrosion or a “spongy” resistance when applying force to the brake pedal. Expect a quick test of the brake fluid’s condition to determine whether a fluid flush is needed. Many manufacturers recommend flushing the system every two to three years.

Drivers deserve confidence in their vehicle care. Replacing brake pads may sound like a simple fix, but in most cases, a closer look protects your vehicle and your wallet. At your local NAPA AUTOPRO service centre, our trustworthy technicians will show and explain worn parts, and offer honest advice on what’s necessary for safe, long-lasting repairs.