How do I check the brake system?

How does it work?

There are two main types of braking system: disc brakes and drum brakes. Disc brakes are more common, but drum brakes can still be found on older vehicles.

There are several parts to check in the braking system: the brake pads and the brake discs. It is normal for them to gradually wear over time, so they should be checked regularly.

When should the brake pads be changed?

• Check them around every 20,000 miles.
• When the dashboard wear warning light comes on (see image below), this means that your brake pads are too worn. On vehicles without a wear warning light, you need to check the thickness of the brake pad lining regularly. When this is less than 3 mm you must have your brake pads replaced.

When should the brake discs be changed?

• Check them around every 30,000 miles.
• Change the brake discs immediately if you detect a problem (scuffed, cracked, broken discs, etc.) or when they wear down to the minimum thickness (indicated in your vehicle owner’s manual).

When should the brake fluid be changed?

• Every two years on average.
• When the brake fluid warning light comes on (see image below), it needs changing.

A few warning signs:

• The steering wheel vibrates when you brake.
• The brakes grind and/or squeak.
• The braking distance increases.
• The brake pedal is too hard or too soft.

This article was written with assistance from the Bosch Car Services network of garages.