The Science Behind Brake Pads: How They Work and When to Replace Them

Posted on September 12, 2024 by Ilja
Categories: Brakes, Car Tips

When driving in Cairns, from the coastal streets to the hills of Kuranda, your brake pads play a crucial role in keeping you safe. But have you ever wondered how they actually work? In this article, we’ll explore the science behind brake pads, how they fit into the braking system, and when you should consider a brake pad replacement. Let’s dive into the details so you can stay informed and drive confidently around Cairns!

What Are Brake Pads and How Do They Work?

The Role of Brake Pads in the Braking System

Your vehicle’s braking system is designed to stop your car by converting kinetic energy into heat. Brake pads are essential components of this system, as they press against the rotors to create the necessary friction that slows your car down.

Here’s a simple breakdown of how brake pads work:

1. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is pushed through the brake lines.
2. This pressure causes the calipers to squeeze the brake pads against the spinning rotor.
3. The friction between the brake pads and the rotors slows the wheels down, ultimately stopping the vehicle.

In Cairns, where the tropical climate can lead to hotter driving conditions, maintaining quality brake pads is essential. Frequent stops in city traffic or while driving uphill in hilly terrain can put additional strain on the braking system.

Types of Brake Pads You Should Know About

There are different types of brake pads available, each with specific benefits depending on the type of vehicle and driving conditions in Cairns.

1. Ceramic Brake Pads

• Ceramic brake pads offer excellent performance and produce less brake dust, making them perfect for urban driving in Cairns’ stop-and-go traffic.
• They are quieter than other types of brake pads but come at a higher price.

2. Metallic Brake Pads

• Metallic brake pads are a good choice for rugged conditions, such as when driving to the Cape or towing a trailer to the Trinity Inlet.
• They are durable but may wear down the rotors faster due to their harder composition.

3. Organic Brake Pads

• Made from eco-friendly materials, organic brake pads are softer and quieter. However, they wear out faster and might not be suitable for heavy vehicles or long drives through hilly areas like the Kuranda Range.

Recognising the signs of brake pad wear can help you avoid accidents or costly damage to other parts of your vehicle. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Squealing or Squeaking Noises

When your brake pads are worn down, they often produce a high-pitched squeal. This is especially noticeable in urban environments like Cairns, where stop-and-go traffic is common.

2. Grinding or Metal-on-Metal Noise

A grinding sound indicates that the brake pads have worn down completely, and the calipers are scraping against the rotors. At this point, it’s crucial to get a brake pad replacement at Cairns Auto Works.

3. Vibrating Brake Pedal

If your brake pedal vibrates when pressed, it could be due to unevenly worn brake pads. This can be caused by frequent hill driving, such as trips up the Gillies Range.

4. Longer Stopping Distance

If your vehicle is taking longer to stop, even at low speeds, it’s likely a sign that your brake pads are too worn to provide adequate friction. This is especially dangerous when driving on busy roads like Sheridan Street or the Captain Cook Highway.

When to Replace Your Brake Pads

Typically, brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 kilometers, but it largely depends on driving conditions. In Cairns, regular inspections are important. If your brake pad thickness is less than 3mm, it’s time for a replacement. Visit Cairns Auto Works for expert advice and services.

Factors That Affect Brake Pad Wear

Several factors can influence how quickly your brake pads wear out, especially in a place like Cairns with its unique driving conditions.

1. Driving Habits: Hard braking, especially on steep roads like those in the Tablelands, can wear out your brake pads faster.
2. Vehicle Weight: Heavier vehicles require more braking force, which can cause faster brake pad wear. If you frequently tow trailers or boats, your pads will likely need replacing sooner.
3. Road Conditions: Dust, gravel, and mud can accelerate wear. Driving through rural areas or along the coast in Cairns can contribute to quicker brake pad wear.
4. Environmental Conditions: Cairns’ tropical climate, with higher temperatures, can cause brake pads to wear out faster, especially during summer months.

Brake Pad Replacement Services at Cairns Auto Works

At Cairns Auto Works, we specialise in brake pad replacement and braking system maintenance. Whether you’re preparing for a long road trip or just want to ensure your vehicle is safe for everyday driving, we’ve got you covered.

What We Offer:

• Brake pad inspections: Regular checks to ensure your brake pads are in optimal condition.
• Rotor resurfacing or replacement: If your rotors are damaged due to worn-out brake pads, we can resurface or replace them to restore braking efficiency.
• Complete brake system service: From pads to rotors and fluid, we’ll ensure your entire braking system is functioning properly. You can learn more about our brake services here.

Stay Safe with Regular Brake Pad Maintenance

Driving around Cairns demands that your vehicle’s braking system is in top condition. From busy streets to the open highways, knowing when to replace your brake pads can make all the difference in your safety. If you’re experiencing any signs of brake pad wear, don’t hesitate to visit Cairns Auto Works for expert service and peace of mind.