how to check the brake pads?

[chillidog]

The brake warning light is flickering on and I'm guessing that the brake fluid is low (the resevoir is on minimum). I'll top it up with DOT 5.1 but I really ought to check the pads. The dealer checked them only recently and it's a chore to go back to them for such basic check, so can anyone guide me through the process?

- is it a wheel off job?
- how much pad material is there when new and how much when worn-out?
--
Richard

[LaurenceFrost]

Take the right-hard wheel off and turn the steering wheel fully to the right (or left if you take the other wheel off).

Now just look through the holes in the calipers and you will see the pad.

The pads normally come with about an inch of "meat" on them, so you can use that as a guide. Remember to check both sides of the disc, as there is a pad each side and they can wear out at different rates (although there's not usually much difference at all).

[ThatPhilBrettGuy]

LaurenceFrost said:

The pads normally come with about an inch of "meat" on them,....

Just how big are your wheels! A CM of "meat" surely...

[V6GTO]

My brake light has started to flicker/come on too, but I had new track day pads put in at Rockingham. If I push down on the hand brake, or give it a tap, the light goes out. Would that indicate a dodgy sensor?

Martin.

[duplicity]

I had the light coming on in my car and I had only done 2500 miles. I checked the brake fluid and it was well above minimum. Anyway, having spoken to the dealer about it I topped it up anyway. It fixed the problem.... the light hasn't come on since.

-

Elliott

[joust]

The warning light is "dual mode" in that it comes on for both the handbrake and low fluid.

Under heavy braking the fluid can be pushed to the front of the reservoir and hence the light can come on. As the pads wear down the fluid level drops - it's important to keep it topped up IMHO - but remember you need to ideally use DOT5.1 rather than the "normal stuff" sold in Halfords.

Pads do wear at different rates, and the "inside" one usually wears slightly faster, meaning that to check the brakes it's a wheel off job.

J

[silversix]

joust said:

but remember you need to ideally use DOT5.1 rather than the "normal stuff" sold in Halfords.

Or if you're really flash use Castrol SRF. I personally use mintex C-Tech, as it's cheaper and I've never boiled it (even in the heavy EVO, which carbonised all the dust seals!)

Adrian

[domcross]

Anyone know where I can buy DOT5.1?

Dom.

[joust]

Any local motor factors (small, generally scruffy looking shop - a rare breed nowdays).

Halfords don't seem to have it (or the 5+ I've been in don't)

J

[chillidog]

Thanks for all the replies, this is what I'll do ...

1. Check the handbrake to check there's nothing obviously amiss.
2. Get some DOT 5.1 and top up the resevoir.
3. Purchase a torque wrench so I can get the wheels back on properly.
4. Purchase a jack.
5. Check the pads and see what's left and find out what the min and max thickness should be.
--
Richard