It is vitally important not just for your own safety, but for other vehicles around you, that you are aware of the possible signs that indicate your brake pads need replacing. These include:

– Squeaking or squealing coming from your brakes whilst in use.
– Dashboard dial alerts (Note – not every vehicle will have brake pad alert indicators).
– There is a grinding sound when braking.
– Your vehicle vibrates whilst braking.

If you experience any of these issues, you may be wondering how you could go about finding the right parts to fix them. The most effective route is to take your vehicle to your nearest AutoZone – where our seasoned professionals will provide you with the highest quality replacement parts.

Once you have the correct replacement parts, follow the steps below to get your vehicle running like new again:

Step 1: Remove the wheel.

Step 2: Remove the slider bolt.

Step 3: Pivot the caliper up.

Step 4: Slide out the old brake pads.

Step 5: Replace the retaining clips.

Step 6: Slide in the new brake pads.

Step 7: Retract the pistons.

Step 8: Monitor the brake fluid level.

Step 9: Reposition the caliper.

Step 10: Reinstall the slider bolt.

Step 11: Repeat for the other side.

Step 12: Test-drive your vehicle under safe conditions.

To find your nearest AutoZone, click here – https://autozone.co.za/store-locator/

Please note this task is ranked as a 10/10 on the AutoZone Hints And Tips Difficulty Rating, and caution should be applied whilst performing this task.

INDEMNITY: These hints and tips are for information purposes only. For more details please consult the relevant workshop manual for your vehicle. Neither Auto Parts Distributors Pty (Ltd) nor any of the AutoZone outlets will be held liable for any damage or injury whatsoever resulting from the use of the information contained in this pamphlet.

Road safety does not only imply obeying the rules of the road, getting enough rest before you set off or stretching your legs but also includes preparing your vehicle for the hard miles. Regardless of the age of your car, a long journey is a significant test. It is essential to make sure all critical components in your vehicle are inspected and serviced before setting out.

What exactly do you need to check before you set off?

Driving with damaged or defective suspension parts can be extremely dangerous. A defective suspension affects a vehicles steering, braking, and handling in general. More often than not, your suspension components like ball joints and tie-rod ends could need replacement. When you start feeling your vehicle pulling off to one side, the steering feeling heavy or unresponsive when turning, especially at low speeds, then there is something wrong with the suspension.

Bad suspension can cause imbalance and instability, making it easier to lose control when driving.

Shocks

A key component of the suspension that is worth an individual mention is your shocks. If the shocks are worn out, you may feel your vehicle ‘nose dive’ when you firmly apply the brakes. Some other consequences of driving with damaged shock absorbers are excessive rolling, squatting, and bouncing around, as well as difficulty to control at high speeds and sudden turns.

Overall, driving with defective suspension is a hazard. If you believe your suspension parts are faulty, take your vehicle to a certified auto mechanic who can evaluate your car.

Brakes

Brakes are not the sexiest part of your car but are the most important and deserve constant checking. The ability to stop your car when required is just as important, if not more than being able to accelerate. Bad brakes are infamous for causing fender benders and fatal accidents on the roads.

Be mindful and conscious of tell-tales such as funny noises, pulling (vehicle going left or right when braking), vibrations when braking and a mushy pedal, where the pedal goes practically to the floor before engaging the brakes.

Clutch

A clutch is a mechanical component that gradually wears and tears, much like brakes, especially the friction disc. Fortunately, your clutch will likely give you ample notice that something is going wrong. There are some signs to indicate a problem – When you notice that the clutch sticks, feels spongy, vibrates, or the pedal is loose, it is time to take your car in for an assessment. If a clutch brakes, your vehicle cannot move.

Due diligence before a long journey will not only keep you and your passengers safe but increase the life of your most cherished investment. Whatever parts require service or replacement, ensure that you go to a trusted and registered service provider who uses genuine parts. AutoZone, South Africa’s largest and most trusted car parts retailer, is located throughout the country to ensure that your mechanic has access to over 75 000 unique parts at the right price.

For more information on vehicle care and product ranges, contact us at customer.care@autozone.co.za or visit https://autozone.co.za/ and learn more about Right to Repair here https://www.right2repair.org.za/q-a-and-explanation-of-the-r2r-guidelines/.

Safeline Brake Pads are South Africa’s No. 1 choice for safety, as proven by AMS Fade Tests carried out on Safeline and competitor brake pads. Vehicles fitted with Safeline stopped up to 10 metres before vehicles fitted with competitor brake pads. Quality and safety are distinguishing factors of Safeline brake pads which are constantly tested to ensure optimum performance. This is verified by its E-Mark certification and SABS approval – the mark of guaranteed quality and reliability. Not only do Safeline brake pads boast superior stopping power; the red Safetrac layer enhances the bedding-in process, improving the performance of the brake pads. Certain Safeline part numbers include wear sensors, which alert the driver when their brake pads need replacing.

Safeline brake pads fit over 90% of the vehicles on South Africa’s roads including passenger, 4×4, LCV, SUV and taxi. If you are looking to buy brake pads, visit your nearest AutoZone and think safety first – Safeline, for optimum stopping power!

When you press down on the brakes, hydraulic brake fluid is pumped from the master cylinder into the caliper which then presses the brake pads against the rotor x. This creates friction which slows down and stops your vehicle.

Each time you apply your brakes, the fibrous material that make up your brake pads, gradually wears away. Brake pads can also become loose, cracked or broken.

Rotors are metal discs which also wear but at a slower rate. Continual heat and pressure from braking can cause the disc routers to become grooved or warped.

Regular brake inspections should be part of your vehicle’s ongoing maintenance to ensure safety and reliability of your vehicle’s braking system.

Get to AutoZone for the perfect brakes for your vehicle’s system!