Buying Brake Pads For Your Vehicle: Important Dos And Don'ts
Is your car in need of new brake pads? If so, then you may be considering buying and replacing the pads yourself, as it's a relatively simple DIY task. Before you decide to buy new brake pads, however, it's important to realize that they're not all made equally; specifically, there are some important dos and don'ts that you'll want to keep in mind when shopping for brake pads in order to make the right decision.
DO Buy Certified Pads
In the United States, brake pads are regulated by the Federal government, so any brake pads you purchase should be certified. This helps to give you added peace of mind in knowing that your brake pads are going to keep you safe on the road. Some other countries don't regulate brake pads, so you're advised to avoid buying from outside the country for your own safety. Instead, always purchase brake pads directly from your vehicle manufacturer when possible.
DON'T Wait Too Long
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when it comes to caring for your car's braking system is waiting too long to replace your existing brake pads once they've become worn. Unfortunately, continuing to drive with worn pads can eventually lead to rotor damage, which is neither an easy or cheap fix. Instead, it's very possible that your car's rotors will need to be replaced entirely in addition to your brake pads.
DO Choose the Right Type
There are two main types of brake pads available: sintered and organic. You'll want to do some careful consideration when determining which option is going to be best for your vehicle. Sintered brake pads are made primarily of metal, whereas organic pads are made of a fibrous material. The type that is best for your car will depend largely on the type of brake discs your car uses. You may want to check which type of pad was installed when your car was manufactured (check your owner's manual) to be sure.
DON'T Buy Used Pads
Finally, never buy used brake pads. Yes, they may save you some money in the short-term, but they're not going to last as long as brand new brake pads and, as a result, there's a very good chance they'll actually end up costing you more in the long-term. Furthermore, you never know what you're getting with used pads, so you could even end up with damage to your vehicle. Call Auto Team Car Care Center LLC or your local car center for more information.