Hey guys, I had my car in the shop sometime last year for routine maintenance, when I was informed that my brake pads were nearing the end of their lifespan. I didn't get them changed at the time, because I figured I would wait until I would hear my brakes squeal from the wear indicators. However, it's been about a year since, with many more miles put on, and I still have yet to hear my brakes squeal. I've read that I could myself visually determine how much brake pad is left...but rather than doing that, could I simply assume that I should hear the brakes squeal when they're at their end? Or is that a dangerous assumption? Thanks for the help guys.

 

If they are street pads, you'll hear the squeak indicator....as long as some dummy didn't remove it.

 

And if that is the case, then you will hear the rivets digging grooves into your rotors. You will eventually hear something but it may be the sound of your rotors being destroyed.

 

It would've been smart to replace them when you were told. Once the pads are fully wore out don't expect your rotors to be in exactly good shape either.

 

ask the mechanic how many mm's of pad material is remaining. Here is what honda recommends.

http://owners.honda.com/service-maintenance/tips

darcy

 

Stick your head down there and look at the pad thickness. It's really that easy.

 

He said he'd rather not do that.

 

You know, brakes are kinda important. How many miles are on those pads? Why not just replace the pads and inspect the rotors (replace if necessary)?

Really, not that hard of a DIY job. With wheels off, good opportunity to replace the brake fluid & bleed the brake lines, too. Kill two birds with one stone.

 

Well they could be fine for all we know, Jack up car with the wheel pointing out, remove the wheel and look through the little hole on the caliper, if both pads are thicker than the metal backing plate, drive on.

 

In that case, he needs to pay someone to do what he won't.