Bosch QuietCast BP1268 Brake Pad Set; Front – Dodge, Freightliner, Mercedes

The brake pads on your vehicle are responsible for slowing your vehicle down and bringing it to a safe stop. Every time you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid flows to each brake caliper clamping the brake pads to each side of the brake rotors. The clamping of the brake pad friction material creates drag between the pads and rotors, slowing each wheel. The harder the brake pedal is pushed, the harder the brake pads clamp the rotors and the faster the wheels slow to a stop. Each time the brake pads contact the rotors, a small amount of the brake pads’ friction material is worn off of the pad.

When the brake pads wear out, they lack the ability to dissipate heat and will increase the amount of time it takes for your vehicle to slow down. In extreme cases the brake pads will have all of the friction material worn off and the pads will begin to dig into the brake rotors, potentially locking the pads into the rotors and preventing the wheel from being able to spin.

Signs of Failing or Worn Out Brake Pads
Squealing, squeaking, and grinding when braking are all signs your brake pads should be inspected. Additionally, a soft brake pedal and your brakes not feeling as responsive as they used to are signs the pads may be worn out and need to be inspected.

Brake pads should be inspected every six months or during every tire rotation and need to be replaced when the friction material has been worn to 3mm or less.

Replacing Your Vehicle’s Brake Pads
Depending on the type of brake calipers your vehicle has, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to a couple of hours to change the front or rear brake pad sets on your vehicle. In addition, special tools may be required to remove the calipers and pads for replacement depending on the make and model of your vehicle.

Bosch Brake Pads.