There are few things scarier in the world than finding yourself behind the wheel of a car that cannot stop. Unfortunately, this nightmare can easily become a reality if you do not have the brake pads on your car replaced in a timely manner once they begin to wear thin. The problem with this is that unlike other types of vehicle maintenance that must be completed at predetermined intervals, the rate at which brake pads will wear out can vary dramatically. The good news is that there are several warning signs that can quickly alert you to the need to have your brakes serviced. Keep reading below to learn more about these warning signs so that you will be prepared to act quickly when the time to change your brake pads arrives. 

High-Pitched Squealing Sound

Have you noticed that your car is making a high-pitched squealing sound when you apply the brakes? If so, you need to know that this sound is more than just an annoyance. In fact, this noise is a very special early alert system that your car is in need of new brake pads. What is so impressive about this warning system is that it is built right into your brake pads. The way this warning system works is quite simple. Each set of brake pads is manufactured with a layer of material that produces a high-pitched sound when the brakes are applied. This layer of noise-producing material is located near the end of the pad's life. As the pad wears down the special layer is exposed and the driver is warned about the need for new brake pads. Unfortunately, far too many people fail to pay attention to this warning since the noise will eventually stop after the layer of noise-making material has worn away. It is very important that you do not make this same mistake since the end of this squealing sound does not mean that your brakes have improved. Instead, this actually means that your brakes are even closer to failing. 

The Presence Of Brake Dust

Have you noticed that you have been needing to wash your vehicle more often because of the presence of a dust-like substance on your wheels? If so, you should know that your dirtier than usual tires may actually be a sign that your brakes are dangerously close to failing and are in need of immediate repair. This is because once your brake pads wear out, your vehicle will be relying on the friction caused by the metal parts of your braking system rubbing together. This friction results in a substance known as brake dust which is composed mostly of metallic shavings. If you have noticed the presence of brake dust on your vehicle, it is essential that you have your brakes serviced immediately.  

For more info, contact a local brake repair shop.