Symptoms
- One pad noticeably thinner than its pair on the same axle
- Possible pulling or vibration when braking
- May notice one wheel running hotter than others after driving
Likely causes
- CommonStuck or seized caliper slide pinsPrevents the caliper from centering evenly over the rotor, wearing one pad faster.
- CommonCaliper piston not retracting fullyKeeps constant pressure on one pad even when not braking.
- PossibleRotor with uneven surface or thicknessCan cause pads to wear unevenly as they contact a warped or tapered rotor.
- Less commonBrake hose collapsed internally on one sideCan trap pressure and prevent even release.
What to do
- Compare pad thickness between the two pads on the same wheel and side to side across the axle.
- Feel each wheel for excess heat after a normal drive, which suggests a dragging caliper.
- Check if the car pulls to one side when braking, which often goes along with uneven wear.
- Have a mechanic inspect caliper slide pins and pistons for freedom of movement.
- Have the caliper serviced, rebuilt, or replaced along with new pads as needed.
- Have rotors measured and resurfaced or replaced if they're also uneven.
Tools and parts
Brake caliperSearch: “brake caliper for your car make and model”
Brake pads (axle set)Search: “brake pads for your car make and model”
When to call a pro
See a mechanic to check caliper function, since uneven pad wear usually means a mechanical issue that will keep happening until it's fixed.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.