Brake pads wear down every time you slow the car, and because that wear happens gradually, it's easy to miss until the warning signs turn into a problem. Knowing what to look and listen for means you can get them changed on your terms, rather than the brakes making the decision for you.
Listen and feel for the early signs
A high-pitched squeal when you brake is often the first clue. Many pads have a small metal wear indicator built in that's designed to make this noise once the friction material has worn thin, so treat it as a genuine warning rather than background noise to tune out.
Pay attention to how the car behaves too. A grinding or growling sound usually means the pad has worn away completely and metal is now touching metal, which can damage your discs. A longer brake pedal, a car that pulls to one side under braking, or vibration through the pedal are all worth having checked promptly.
Give them a visual check
If your wheels allow a clear view, you can often see the brake pad through the gaps in the alloy, pressed against the disc. Compare the thickness of the friction material to the metal backing plate behind it.
- Plenty of pad material visible: likely fine for now
- Thin sliver of material left: due for replacement soon
- Little or no visible pad, or metal-on-metal contact: stop driving and get it seen urgently
If you're not confident judging thickness through the wheel, a garage or fast-fit centre can check this in minutes, often for free as part of a general health check.
What to do next
If you suspect your pads are worn, don't wait for the next scheduled service. Book a brake check as soon as possible, mention any noises or handling changes you've noticed, and always follow your vehicle handbook's guidance on brake component intervals. Braking is not the place to take chances, so when in doubt, get it looked at by a qualified technician.
