As a Honda Civic owner, you want to take the very best care of your car, but going to the mechanic every time you have an issue can be quite expensive. Luckily, it isn’t very hard to learn how to change brake pads and rotors on your own. The key is to know when to do it and which products to buy.
How Do You Know It’s Time To Change Brake Pads?
If you’ve started to hear a squealing noise when you apply pressure to your brakes, it may be time to change the brake pads. A bit of squeaking is actually common during rainy weather, but if you hear the noise rain or shine, or if it becomes louder or more persistent, check the pads. If you ignore the squeal for too long, the pads will erode away, eventually creating a grinding metal sound. Brake pads that need to be replaced often cause your brake pedal to vibrate as well. Finally, if your brake pads look like they are less than 1/4-inch thick, replace them even if you’ve had no other warning signs.
When Is It Time To Replace the Rotors?
Your brake pads may not be the only thing you need to change. Your rotors, which the pads grip to stop the car, also need to be replaced from time to time. Is the steering wheel or the brake pedal vibrating? This could be due to overheated, warped rotors that lead to a rougher ride. Intermittent screeching is another sign of worn rotors. Do a quick inspection. If you look behind your wheel spokes, you’ll see a disc-like object. That is the rotor. If it’s blue, get a brake inspection. Finally, keep in mind that rotors wear down over time and need to be replaced about every 15,000 miles.
What Are the Best Brake Pads?
When you begin your hunt for Honda Civic brake pads, it is important to find a high-quality set. A good set of brake pads should be able to perform well in all types of weather, providing enough friction no matter what the temperature is outside. It is also important to consider how long the brake pads are made to last, so you can plan ahead for the next replacement. Think about the materials you want as well. You can find semi-metallic ones, ceramic ones, or organic ones. Each type has its own pros and cons. Above all else, buy pads that are certified, have a solid warranty, and are manufactured by a trusted name brand.
What Rotors Do You Need?
When you look for rotors to match your 2014 Honda Civic brake pads, you’ll need ones that are high-quality, durable, and don’t produce a lot of noise when you slow down. Look for rotors that tolerate both high temperatures and low ones to prevent warping. Like brake pads, you can find rotors that are environmentally friendly if you prefer. Some also come with added protection in the form of UV coating.
With so many products on the market, finding what you need the first time may feel overwhelming. Be sure to ask a reliable auto expert for help. Receiving help now means you’ll know exactly what to buy the next time you need to change your brake pads and rotors.
