Symptoms
- Brake pad wear icon or 'brake pads worn' message on the dash
- Possible squealing noise from a built-in wear indicator
- Pedal usually still feels normal
Likely causes
- CommonBrake pads worn to the replacement thresholdA wear sensor embedded in the pad completes a circuit when the pad gets thin.
- PossibleUneven pad wear on one sideA caliper that isn't sliding freely can wear one pad faster.
- Less commonFaulty wear sensorRare, but possible if pads were recently replaced and light still shows.
What to do
- Listen for a light metallic squeal when braking, which many pads make on purpose as they near the wear limit.
- Check pad thickness through the wheel spokes if visible, comparing to a new pad's thickness.
- Schedule a brake inspection soon rather than waiting for the pads to wear through completely.
- Avoid hard braking and long descents until pads are checked, since worn pads reduce stopping performance.
- Have a shop measure pad thickness on all four wheels, not just the one with the sensor.
- Replace pads (and resurface or replace rotors if needed) before metal-on-metal contact occurs.
- Reset the wear light if your vehicle requires a manual reset after pad replacement.
Tools and parts
Brake padsSearch: “brake pads for your car make and model”
Brake pad wear sensor (if separate)Search: “brake pad wear sensor for your car make and model”
When to call a pro
Have a mechanic inspect and replace pads soon; waiting too long can let pads wear through and damage the rotors, increasing repair cost.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.