When Should You Replace Your Car’s Brake Pads? Signs and Reliable Locations

The braking system, with brake pads as a key component, plays a crucial role in ensuring safety for every journey. Brake pads generate the necessary friction to slow down and stop the vehicle. However, due to continuous operation under high pressure and temperature, they are subject to inevitable wear and tear. Regular inspection and maintenance of brake pads are essential, not only to maintain optimal braking performance but also to prevent potentially serious consequences.    

Neglecting brake pads maintenance is synonymous with putting yourself at potential risk. Worn brake pads reduce braking efficiency, increasing stopping distances and posing dangers during emergency situations. Moreover, excessively worn brake pads can damage the brake discs, leading to costly repairs. Brake pads issues can even affect other components within the braking system, significantly increasing the risk of traffic accidents.

I. Indications of brake pads deterioration:

• Unusual noises when braking: Squealing, grinding, or metal-on-metal sounds when applying the brakes are common indicators of worn brake pads. 
• Vibrating brake pedal: A vibrating brake pedal can indicate uneven brake pads wear or warped rotors. 
• Vehicle pulls to one side when braking: This is a sign that the brake pads on one side of the vehicle may be more worn than the other. 
• Brake warning light is on: This is a general warning for the brake system, including the brake pads. 
• Brake fluid level is low: A low brake fluid level may indicate a brake fluid leak.

II. DIY guide to checking your brake pads:

• Park on a safe surface: Engage the parking brake and chock the wheels 
• Remove the wheel: Use a tire iron to remove the wheel. 
• Brake pad thickness check: It is recommended to replace the brake pads when the thickness is less than 4mm and replacement is mandatory when the thickness is less than 2mm.

• Inspect related components: Check the brake disc, brake piston, and brake fluid lines for any abnormalities. 

III. The importance of regular brake pads maintenance and replacement:

• Improve safety and braking performance: New brake pads enhance vehicle safety and prevent accidents. 
• Extend the life of brake rotors: Excessive friction material wear or hardening can induce premature rotor damage, including surface scratches and non-uniform wear. 
• Fuel efficiency: Optimal brake system operation leads to lower fuel consumption. 

IV. Selecting a trusted service center for brake pads servicing and replacement:

To ensure the best braking performance and peace of mind while driving, we recommend that you choose Mitsubishi Motors Vietnam’s authorized distributors for brake pads maintenance and replacement. With a network of 63 authorized distributors covering 44 provinces and cities, we are committed to providing you with: 

• Genuine parts: Ensure the quality and reliability of the brake system. 

• Experienced technician: Perform brake pads maintenance and replacement procedures according to technical standards. 

To optimize service time and enhance customer experience, customers can schedule service appointments and vehicle inspections via the Mitsubishi Connect+ application or make an appointment in advance with the staff in charge at authorized MMV dealers nationwide. 

Mitsubishi Motors Vietnam hopes that this information will assist our valued customers in brake pads maintenance, ensuring safety and efficiency on every journey. 

About Mitsubishi Motors Vietnam – 30 years of “Drive Ahead Together for Everyday Adventure”:  

Mitsubishi Motors Vietnam Co., Ltd. was established in 1994 as the official distributor of Mitsubishi Motors Japan in Vietnam and is one of the first joint venture automotive manufacturing and distribution companies in Vietnam. 

Over 30 years of “Drive Ahead Together for Everyday Adventure” with Vietnamese people, Mitsubishi Motors Vietnam has continuously innovated to bring optimal models for Vietnam’s terrain and weather, ensuring Safety, Peace of Mind, and Comfort. We continuously improve products and services to create the most satisfying customer experience. Mitsubishi Motors Vietnam is committed to being a reliable companion, inspiring the spirit of adventure and conquering every challenge.  

Currently, Mitsubishi Motors Vietnam distributes 7 car models:  

• 5-seater cars: Attrage, Xforce 

• 7-seater cars: Xpander, Xpander Cross, Outlander, Pajero Sport 

• Pickup trucks: All-New Triton