Sorry to post such an newbie thread for most of you. I DID SEARCH, and could not find an answer to my question. Anyway! How am I able to determine how low my brake pads are without having to take my car in to the shop? Is there a tool? or am I able to tell my looking at it? They squeal like crazy and I have about 20k on them. I just mainly would like to know when I need to replace them and how I am able to determine that. Thanks all, any advice or help is apprecaited!

 

Remove the wheels and look through the peep hole.

 

so. ok. i can look at that. but how am i supposed to know if the pads are gone or not? is there something you can see to indicate your pad wear(like on the tyres)

 

They have metal pad wear indicators on them......when the pad approaches wear limits, the indicator hits the disc and squeals like buggery. Doesn't cause damage, just sounds like murder is being committed.

That is the sound you are hearing.

 

^ Like he said, look at the photo. Also when you look through the peep hole you will see the rotor and the pads. When you see very little pad it's time to change them ( very easy on this car ) .

 

Actually, I should clarify. I said they squeal when they approach wear limits.

I should have said "when they are way past wear limits'......

Change the damn pads as soon as humanly possible.

 

I had a newb question as well. Some places tell me to change the pads at 4mm, some at 3mm, does anyone have a suggestion on the ideal time to change the pads when there is no squeaks? I always get the "you pads needs replacing" from the service people all time. THanks.