Maintaining your car's brake system is vital, particularly in Dubai, a busy and hot city. Rotors should usually be changed between 25,000 and 65,000 miles, and brake pads every 20,000 to 60,000 miles.
Still, these figures can be significantly influenced by elements such as Dubai's topography, climate, and driving style. Therefore, car maintenance must identify the indicators that show it is time for fresh brake pads.
This blog will discuss the typical errors to avoid during Brake Pad Replacement and how to check your brake pads to ensure your car stays safe on Dubai's roads.
How To Inspect Your Vehicle’s Brake Pads?
Brake pads are essential in converting your car's kinetic energy into heat, slowing down your wheels. When you press your car's brake pedal, the brake pads press with the rotors to create the necessary friction to stop your car.
Your car wouldn't be able to stop appropriately without working brake pads, resulting in hazardous driving circumstances. The points that follow indicate when a Brake Pad Change is due:
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Squealing or Squeaking Noise:
A high-pitched screech when you brake indicates that the brake pads in your car are nearing wear-through. An indicator, a little metal shim, generates this noise, signaling that the pads must be changed.
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Unusual Vibration:
When you push the brake pedal, worn-out brake pads may produce a pulsation or vibration, which can also indicate distorted motors.
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Longer Stopping Distance:
If your vehicle exhibits an extended braking distance compared to its typical performance. It can be due to worn brake pads.
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Illuminating Brake Warning Light
Many modern cars have a brake warning light on the dashboard. If this light comes on, it’s a good idea to check your brake pads.
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Visual Inspection
You can often see your brake pads through the spaces between your car's wheel spokes. If the pad is less than a quarter inch (about 4 millimeters) thick, it’s time to replace them.
6 Tips To Avoid Brake Pad Replacement Mistakes in Dubai
When replacing brake pads in Dubai, it is crucial to get them right to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance. With the city's extreme temperatures and heavy traffic conditions, avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference.
Here are six essential tips to help you avoid errors and ensure a successful brake pad replacement, keeping your car running smoothly and safely on Dubai's roads.
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Select Terrain Specific Brake Pads:
Your choice of brake pads has to take Dubai's particular terrain and driving conditions into account. The scorching weather of the city and the regular stop-and-go traffic could be taxing on your brakes.
Therefore, premium brake pads are needed for high temperatures and heavy use. If you regularly drive in the mountainous areas surrounding Hatta, you must choose brake pads that hold well under high braking force.
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Follow Manufacturer Recommendations
You need to follow the manufacturer's recommendations on brake pads for your car. These standards guarantee the best performance and safety and are highly focused on thorough testing.
Therefore, to obtain the correct specs, refer to the handbook for your car or see a dealership. The specified brake pads will help you avoid problems, including early wear or lessened braking power.
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Inspect and Replace Other Brake Components
When replacing your brake pads, you should pay attention to other essential elements of the braking system. You should properly inspect the callipers, rotors, and brake lines for any signs of wear or damage.
For instance, if your rotors are warped, simply replacing the brake pads won't solve the problem. By addressing all components, you ensure the entire system functions smoothly and effectively.
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Follow Proper Bedding-in Procedures
One commonly missed procedure is bedding in, or braking in, new brake pads. This method maximizes braking efficiency and extends the life of your brake pads by helping to cover the rotor with brake pad material evenly.
To properly bed in your brake pads, you must follow the specific instructions that come with them. Usually, these instructions include several slow stops from different speeds. This is important to keep problems like glazing or uneven pad wear from happening.
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Regularly Check and Maintain Brake Fluid
The brake fluid in your car is an essential component of the entire braking system. However, due to moisture absorption, this fluid is very susceptible to contamination or loss of efficacy over time.
Therefore, you should regularly check the amount of brake fluid in your vehicle and refill it according to your vehicle's maintenance schedule.
Due to Dubai's humid climate, brake fluid might degrade more quickly at times, so you need to exercise caution to ensure that your brakes remain responsive and trustworthy.
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Choose a Reputable Brake Service Provider
Selecting a reputable brake service provider is crucial to avoid mistakes in brake pad replacement in Dubai. Look for a service center with certified technicians and positive customer reviews.
By choosing a reliable provider, you ensure your brake pads are installed correctly and your braking system is thoroughly inspected.
Best Types of Brake Pads for Dubai
When choosing brake pads for driving in Dubai, it is crucial to consider the unique environmental conditions, such as high temperatures and frequent stop-and-go traffic.
Here is a breakdown of the three main types of brake pads and their suitability for Dubai terrain:
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Organic Brake Pads:
Organic brake pads, or non-asbestos organic (NAO) pads, are made from fibers, resins, and fillers. They are soft and produce less noise compared to other types of brake pads. However, they can wear out faster and might not perform as well under extreme heat.
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Semi-Metallic Brake Pads:
These brake pads are made of metal fibers mixed with other materials. They offer excellent performance and durability, especially in high-heat situations. These noisier pads can be more rigid on your rotors, but they provide reliable braking power.
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Ceramic Brake Pads:
These brake pads are made from ceramic fibers, nonferrous metal particles, and bonding agents. They are known for being quiet, producing less dust, and lasting longer. While they perform well in various driving conditions, they can be more expensive than other types.
Features | Organic Brake Pads | Semi-Metallic Brake Pads | Ceramic Brake Pads |
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Temperature Handling | Moderate | High | Very High |
Noise Level | Low | High | Low |
Durability | Low | High | Very High |
Rotor Wear | Low | High | Low |
Cost | Low | Moderate | High |
Performance in Stop-and-Go | Moderate | High | Very High |
Ceramic Brake Pads are usually the ideal option considering the high temperatures and urban driving circumstances in Dubai because of their outstanding heat resistance, durability, and silent operation. They are ideal for high temperatures and give consistent performance in stop-and-go traffic.
Although more expensive, their longevity and performance benefits make them a worthwhile investment.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, correct brake pad replacement guarantees the performance and safety of your car, particularly in Dubai's demanding environment. Reducing common mistakes and following professional advice will help improve the lifetime and performance of your braking system.
If you are looking for professional assistance, AutoStudio offers expert brake services to keep your vehicle in top shape. For reliable and efficient Brake Pad Replacement Dubai, you can trust AutoStudio to deliver exceptional service and ensure your car’s brakes are always up to the challenge.