How to check the brake pad wear of a used car?

When buying a used car, ensuring the braking system is in good shape is crucial for your safety on the road. Brake pads are a key part of this system, and their wear level can tell you a lot about the car’s condition and how much money you might need to spend on repairs later. Many used car buyers overlook this simple check, but it’s easy to do even if you’re not a car expert. Let’s walk through the steps to check brake pad wear so you can make a smarter decision when purchasing a used car.

A visual check is the easiest way to start assessing brake pad wear on a used car. First, find a safe place to park the car and turn off the engine. You don’t need any special tools for this—just your eyes. Look through the spaces between the wheel spokes to see the brake caliper, which is the metal clamp around the brake rotor. The brake pad is the material attached to the caliper that presses against the rotor. On most used cars, you can see the thickness of the pad clearly. A new brake pad is usually around 10 to 12 millimeters thick. If the pad looks thinner than 3 millimeters, it’s almost worn out and needs to be replaced soon. Also, check for any uneven wear—if one side of the pad is thinner than the other, it could mean there’s a problem with the caliper or suspension, which is a red flag for a used car.

Your senses can also help you detect brake pad wear in a used car. When test-driving the car, pay attention to the sounds when you press the brake pedal. A high-pitched squealing or scraping noise is a common sign that the brake pads are worn down. Most brake pads have a wear indicator—a small metal tab that rubs against the rotor when the pad is thin—causing that squeal. If you hear a grinding sound, it means the pads are completely worn out, and the metal caliper is touching the rotor. This is bad news because it can damage the rotor, leading to more expensive repairs. Also, feel how the brake pedal responds. If it feels spongy or you have to press it down further than normal to stop the used car, it could be a sign of worn brake pads or other brake system issues.

The brake fluid level in a used car can also give you clues about brake pad wear. Brake fluid is stored in a reservoir under the hood, usually near the front of the car. Make sure the car is parked on a level surface before checking. The reservoir has “MAX” and “MIN” marks—if the fluid level is close to or below “MIN,” it might indicate that the brake pads are worn. As brake pads wear down, the calipers move further to press against the rotor, which uses more brake fluid. However, low brake fluid could also mean a leak, so you should check for wet spots around the wheels or under the car. If you find a leak, that’s a serious issue that needs to be fixed before driving the used car.

If you’re not sure about what you’re seeing or feeling, or if the used car has any signs of brake problems, it’s best to take it to a professional mechanic. A mechanic can do a more thorough inspection of the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and other parts of the braking system. They have the tools and expertise to measure brake pad thickness accurately and identify any hidden issues that you might miss. While this might cost a small fee, it’s worth it to avoid buying a used car with costly brake repairs. A professional inspection can also give you leverage to negotiate a lower price if the brake pads need to be replaced, or help you decide to walk away from a used car that has serious braking problems.

Buying a used car is a big investment, and checking the brake pad wear is a simple step that can save you time, money, and stress. By following these steps—doing a visual inspection, using your senses, checking the brake fluid, and getting professional help when needed—you can ensure that the used car you’re interested in has a reliable braking system. Don’t rush the process; take the time to check the brake pads carefully, and you’ll be able to drive your used car with confidence knowing it’s safe.