One of the most vital components of any vehicle is the braking system - especially the brake pads. Invented by Elmer Ambrose Sperry in 1898, these small parts can cause major problems if they are worn down. But what are they exactly, and how do they work?

Brake pads come into contact with the rotors, causing enough friction to slow down or completely stop a car. While they are part of an intricate network of elements that rely heavily on each other, they play their own role very well.

As you step on the brake pedal, a cylinder is activated. It sends fluid through a series of hoses that end up down in the calipers. This is when the brake pads are engaged. Applying pressure to the rotor - which is connected to each wheel - the production of friction decreases the speed of the vehicle.

To reverse this process, simply release the pedal. This lets go of the brake pads which then moves the fluid back up the hoses. The result is your wheels are free to move again.

There are many different types of brake pads - each dependent on a vehicle's particular make, model, and year. If you need to have yours replaced, contact Ford Parts BC today and find a perfect match.

Responsible for stopping your car in its tracks, the brake pads are very important to maintain.

Depending on the vehicle and your driving habits, a general rule of thumb is have your brake system - including the pads - inspected every five months or 8,046 km (5,000 miles). You can have this done at your regular oil changes as well if you want to kill two birds with one stone.

However, if you hear squeaking, squealing, grinding, or any other strange noise, you need to have them looked at immediately. Another indicator that the brake pads are bad is if the warning light is on or if the steering wheel starts shaking.

During an assessment, the mechanic will measure the wear and tear on the current set of brake pads. Fluid levels will also be checked to ensure that every component in the network is properly lubricated. You will then be notified of how much life is left (if any) in the pads.

Please keep in mind that degraded pads can cause significant damage to other pieces in the system. That is why they need to be looked at more often.

Need to buy new brake pads for your vehicle? Contact Ford Parts BC to place an order!