Brake Wear Indicators ?

[ChrisD46]

As normal brake pad wear occurs - do wear indictors cause brakes to squeal only when you apply the brakes OR will they begin to squeal constantly as the car is moving / wheels are in motion ? I am not quite sure how this process works - thanks in advance for replies .

 

[apwillard1986]

Just as they are applied...

 

[cchase]

Depending on the condition of the tabs, they may squeak constantly, only when the brakes are applied, or not at all.

 

[Eddie]

They start by squealing only when brakes are applied but, as pad wear continues they will squeal all the time. From my experience, one should not depend on these 100% but, the pad thickness should be visually checked every 5-10,000 miles depending on usage. JMO.. Ed

 

[SteveSRT8]

The original installer must usually bend these on one or more pads to make them work correctly.

On most cars they will NOT make noise when applied but will be noisy when driving at lower speeds.

Eventually they will drive you crazy!

 

[mechtech2]

They usually squeal for sure when the brakes are applied, and the pad is worn.
But they also can squeal at other times! [with worn pads]

 

[ChrisD46]

Good replies ... probably a good rule of thumb to have brake pads checked every time you have tires rotated (7500 miles) .