How to tell if brake pads are worn?

How to tell if brake pads are worn involves looking for both performance changes and visible signs of wear. Common indicators include squealing or screeching noises caused by built-in wear indicators, grinding sounds when the pad material is gone, vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel, and longer stopping distances. You might also notice that the brake pedal feels softer or needs to be pressed farther down. A visual inspection can confirm wear—if the pad material is very thin or measures 3/16 of an inch or less, it’s time to replace them. Ignoring worn brake pads can lead to rotor damage and higher repair costs, so have them inspected promptly if you notice these symptoms.