Brake Pads Not Wearing Evenly? [Causes and Fixes]

If the brake pads do not wear evenly, they can cause certain problems like inconsistent braking power. Thus, it is highly important to eliminate any problem that causes uneven brake pads to wear.

In this comprehensive guide, we will be discussing the causes of uneven brake pad wear as well as preventative measures. If you also face this issue, join our discussion! 

Why Are Brake Pads Not Wearing Evenly?

Brake pads might not wear evenly due to various issues in your car’s brake system, from caliper problems to driving habits. Using our experience with car maintenance, we’ve pinpointed several key factors contributing to this issue. Understanding these can help you address and prevent uneven brake pad wear, so go through these points attentively.

Caliper Complications

• When calipers don’t retract properly, one pad stays pressed against the rotor. We suggest checking for any binding or resistance in the pistons or sliding pins.
• Seized calipers are a more severe form of sticking calipers, where the piston or pins are immovable, causing constant contact and significant wear. Thus, prompt actions are a must.
• Faulty pistons or seals in the caliper can prevent balanced pressure, leading to one pad working harder. Regular maintenance checks can help identify this early.

Rotor-Related Issues

• Uneven surfaces on rotors can cause pads to wear irregularly. This often results from overheating or stress. We recommend inspecting rotors for any signs of warping.
• Changes in rotor thickness create high and low spots, leading to uneven pad contact. Causes include hard braking or rust buildup. If you inspect the system regularly, it will be possible to solve such an issue early. 

Suspension and Alignment Challenges

• Improper wheel alignment can also unevenly distribute weight, putting more stress on one side’s brakes. So, we advise checking alignment periodically.
• Worn suspension parts like ball joints or tie rods impact wheel movement and brake pressure. 

Other Considerations

• Frequent hard stops can accelerate wear. Thus, you should maintain smoother braking habits to reduce stress on the pads.
• Lower-quality pads may wear unevenly. Investing in higher-quality pads can save costs in the long run.

How to Prevent Uneven Brake Pads Wear?

In order to prevent uneven brake pad wear, it’s crucial to combine regular maintenance with responsible driving practices. Based on our knowledge of automotive care, we’ve compiled effective strategies. Let us explain them one by one. 

• Keep caliper pistons and guide pins moving freely. Regular cleaning and lubrication of brake pads can prevent them from sticking, which is a common cause of uneven pad wear.
• Always check rotors for signs of warping or uneven thickness. The reason why, warped rotors not only cause uneven pad wear but also lead to a shaky feeling when braking. Resurfacing or replacing them might be necessary.
• Regular alignment checks and fixing any worn suspension parts are key. These components directly affect how your wheels and brakes function together.
• You are advised to avoid harsh stops and practice easing into stops to reduce stress on your brake pads. This helps in uniform wear and extends the life of your brake pads.
• Make sure to use both front and rear brakes appropriately. On long descents, you can try engine braking to reduce the load on your brakes.
• Keep your vehicle’s load within its capacity because overloading puts extra pressure on your brakes, leading to quicker and uneven pad wear.
• Last but not least, we recommend having a professional mechanic inspect your brakes annually. This is especially important if you often drive in severe conditions, such as in cities with lots of traffic or on mountainous roads.

Is it Safe to Drive With Uneven Brake Pads?

Generally, it is not safe to drive with uneven brake pads as it compromises vehicle safety and performance. 

When brake pads wear unevenly, the car’s stopping ability drops. In emergencies, this reduced braking efficiency can be dangerous.

Also, if one pad is thinner, your car might pull towards that side when braking. This can lead to loss of control, especially at high speeds or in wet conditions.

In addition, uneven pads wear down rotors unevenly, which not only requires costly repairs but also worsens braking performance.

The unpredictability of uneven brakes greatly increases the chance of accidents, as it affects vehicle stability and control.