Period 2 Automotive Service Technician Practice Test 2025 - Free Auto Service Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

A common sign that brake pads may need replacement is the presence of squeaking or grinding noises. These sounds are typically caused by the wear indicators on the brake pads, which are designed to alert the driver that the pads are worn down and need to be replaced. The squeaking is particularly noticeable when the brakes are applied, and if the pads are worn to the point where the metal backing is contacting the rotor, grinding noises may occur, indicating that immediate action should be taken to avoid further damage to the brake system.

Increased fuel consumption is often associated with engine performance issues, not directly with the condition of brake pads. Excessive engine vibration may signal problems with engine mounts, driveline components, or wheel alignment, rather than the brake system itself. Lastly, cooling system failure has no connection to brake pad wear; it relates more to the engine cooling and can indicate issues like radiator leaks or thermostat malfunctions. Thus, the noise from brakes serves as a direct and reliable indicator of the need for replacement.