You may not know it but your brake pads save your life everyday you get into your car. They are the tool behind you stopping your vehicle and not hitting anything. Most drivers don’t think about stopping with it being a natural reflex but knowing these helpful tips can help you determine when it is time to replace your pads.

1) KNOW THEY WEAR DOWN OVER TIME

The most important thing to know is that they will wear down over time. Your brake pads were not made to last forever. The length of their life will depend on their materials, how much force you put on them daily, and the length of your trips. Its not a bad thing if the wear down it just means they are doing their job, but that also requires you to do your job and get them maintenanced.

2) LISTEN FOR WARNING SIGNS

If you hear screeching and scratching noises when you stop, it may be time to get your brake pads changed. By not getting them changed when you hear the warning signs can cause serious and expensive damage to the rest of your vehicle. Your brake pads are designed to stop your vehicle when you need them to. When you hear these noises, it is a sign they are not doing their job correctly. Do not wait to change them and regret it later.

3) MAKE SURE THOSE NOICES ARENT JUST NORMAL

Not all noises necessarily mean it is time for a change. Depending on the whether your brakes can screech if they are cold in the winter, even dust, sand and humidity can cause some concerning sounds. If you are unsure of the sounds, take your vehicle into your local ford dealer, to have a service professional take a look.

4) AVOID PUTTING THE PEDAL TO THE METAL EVERYDAY

Although going fast is fun, it is not always the best thing to do for you brake pads. Constant stopping at fast speeds and sharp braking will wear your brake pads down sooner. If you slow down when stopping and anticipate braking before the last minute, it will help extend the life of your brake pads and possibly save your life at the same time.

5) GET THEM CHECKED REGULARLY BY A PROFESSIONAL

A common rule of thumb is to get your brake pads checked every time you get an oil change. The technician can tell you what grade they are and when you should expect to change them out. Being on top of your brakes and prepared could potentially save your life one day. Don’t put your life or your families life in the hand of worn down pads.