Blog / Brake Pads

Does Your Nissan Need New Brake Pads?

A diagram of a brake pad, as serviced near Indianapolis, Indiana
Brake pads are an essential part of your braking system, as they generate the friction that brings your wheels to a stop. The pads wear down over time, which increases the time needed for your brakes to engage. As your Nissan dealer, we want to tell you about some of the signs we need to install new pads for you.  

Screeching Noises

When you hit the brakes, your Nissan should respond almost instantly and your car will come to a stop. The pads are covered by a friction material covering that generates friction against the rotors. Each time you apply the brakes, minute particles of friction material flake off. A new pad has a 1/2" thick covering, and a pad needs to be replaced when it reaches 1/4" thickness. Pad manufacturers install a warning device in each pad to remind you that they need to be replaced. When a pad's material covering drops to 1/4", a metal spike is revealed. This spike will scratch against the smooth surface of the rotor each time you brake, and it produces a loud screeching noise. If you hear this sound when you brake, it's time to visit us for new pads.

Glazed Pads

A glazed pad is a pad that's been kept in contact with a rotor for an extended period. When you hit the brakes, the brake calipers close on either side of each rotor, and the pads do their work of stopping your car. When you take your foot off the brake, the calipers are withdrawn. A pad can remain in contact with a rotor if it's damaged and doesn't withdraw completely. The pad in a damaged caliper may continue to skim across the surface of its rotor. If this occurs for long enough, the affected pad will develop a smooth and shiny surface. This is known as glazing, and it's dangerous, as a glazed pad can't generate friction anymore. If you have a glazed pad, you could find that your car pulls to one side when you brake. We can easily replace a glazed pad to fix this problem.

Increased Stopping Distance

If your car seems to be taking longer to stop than it previously did, you could have worn pads. Worn pads produce less friction due to damage and a thinner material covering. The thinner covering also means that the calipers take slightly longer than usual to clamp onto the rotors. This time is measured in seconds, but it can be the difference between a near miss and a collision. Our technicians can easily check the thickness of your pads, and install new ones if your present pads are damaged. If you experience any braking problems, call us right away at Ed Martin Nissan.
Posted in:

Related Posts

A mechanic giving a thumbs up while holding two wrenches with a car's engine in the background.

Stay on Track with Your Nissan Maintenance Schedule

Why Following Your Nissan Maintenance Schedule Matters Keeping up with your Nissan maintenance schedule is essential for ensuring your vehicle's longevity and performance, especially in Idaho where weather can take a toll as much as regular wear and tear. Nobody’s excited to have regular maintenance done—but when it helps prevent costly repairs, improve fuel efficiency, and ensures your car is operating safely, it’s crucial. Whether you're driving a 2026 Nissan Rogue or a 2026 Nissan LEAF, adhering to the recommended service intervals is key to keeping your vehicle in top condition. For drivers in Indianapolis, IN, staying on top of maintenance is particularly important due to varying weather conditions that can impact your vehicle's performance. From freezing winters to humid summers, regular check-ups ensure your Nissan can handle the demands of every season. more Key Components of the Nissan Maintenance Schedule Every Nissan model comes with a detailed maintenance schedule tailored to its specific needs. Here are some of the key services included: - Oil and Filter Changes: Regular oil changes keep your engine running smoothly by reducing friction and preventing wear. Most Nissan models recommend oil changes every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, depending on the type of oil used. - Tire Rotation and Alignment: To ensure even tire wear and extend their lifespan, tire rotations are typically recommended every 5,000 to 7,500 miles. Proper alignment also enhances handling and fuel efficiency. - Brake Inspections: Your brakes are critical for safety. Routine inspections help identify wear on brake pads and rotors before they become a problem. - Fluid Checks and Replacements: From coolant to transmission fluid, maintaining proper fluid levels is essential for optimal performance. These checks are usually part of your scheduled maintenance at specific mileage intervals. - Battery Testing: Extreme temperatures in Indianapolis can affect your battery's performance. Regular testing ensures your battery is ready to go when you need it most. By following these guidelines, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your Nissan running like new. How Ed Martin Nissan Makes Maintenance Easy At Ed Martin Nissan in Indianapolis, Indiana, we understand how important it is to stick to your Nissan maintenance schedule. Our certified technicians are trained to handle all aspects of your vehicle's care, from routine oil changes to complex repairs. We also offer convenient online tools to help you stay organized. Use our website to schedule service appointments, check for current service specials, or explore our maintenance guides tailored to popular models like the Nissan Pathfinder and Altima. Additionally, we use genuine Nissan parts to ensure the highest quality and compatibility with your vehicle. This commitment to excellence means you can trust us to keep your car performing at its best. Tips for Staying on Top of Your Maintenance Schedule Sticking to your Nissan maintenance schedule doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are a few tips to make it easier: Set Reminders: Use your smartphone or a calendar app to set reminders for upcoming service appointments. Your vehicle’s infotainment system may even be able to do this for you! Keep Records: Maintain a log of all services performed on your vehicle. This is especially helpful if you plan to sell your car in the future. Check Your Owner’s Manual: Your Nissan owner’s manual provides detailed information about recommended service intervals and specific requirements for your model. Take Advantage of Dealer Services: At Ed Martin Nissan, we offer multi-point inspections during every visit to ensure no detail is overlooked. By staying proactive, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your vehicle is well-maintained and ready for any journey. Conclusion Following your Nissan maintenance schedule is one of the best ways to protect your investment and ensure a safe, reliable driving experience in Indianapolis. From oil changes to brake inspections, regular upkeep keeps your car running smoothly and helps you avoid costly repairs down the road. At Ed Martin Nissan, we're here to support you every step of the way with expert service and genuine parts tailored to your vehicle's needs. Visit us today or schedule your next maintenance appointment online. Let us help you keep your Nissan performing at its best!

Two people talking to a sales agent at a Nissan dealership near Indianapolis, Indiana

Luxury and Power Combined: The 2024 Nissan Armada

The Nissan Armada is the ultimate full-sized three-row SUV; big, tall, and rugged looking, off-road capable, and immense power for exceptional hauling and towing capabilities. The 2024 Nissan Armada adds a soft touch to its rugged capabilities by coming with a great array of comfort and convenience features. more Tremendous Power Equipped with a roaring 5.6-liter V8 capable of generating an immense 400 HP and 413 pound-feet of torque, the Armada is capable of excellent performance. For starters, it is one of the fastest full-size SUVs with its 6-second 0 to 60 dash, ensuring authoritative overtaking. Additionally, its burly engine allows it to boast a class-leading 8,500-pound towing capacity to ensure you can pull just about any boat or trailer with ease. Despite its larger build, the Nissan Armada is easy and fun to drive. The 7-speed automatic transmission's smooth shifts are complemented by the swift-responding electric power-assisted rack-pinion steering and firm, cushy brakes for a dynamic handling experience. The double wishbone independent suspension system ensures a soft ride, while the available four-wheel-drive system with low-range gearing coupled with a 9.1-inch ground clearance ensures serious off-roading capabilities. Spacious and Luxurious Cabin The Armada ensures ample stretching-out room for all seven or eight passengers with its 157 cubic feet of seating volume. The cargo space is tremendous as well, with 20 cubic feet behind the third row and over 86 cubic feet of cargo-carrying capacity with the second and third-row seats folded down completely. Convenient technologies such as the one-touch power-folding feature makes converting the Armada into a hauler a breeze. The Armada's interior is not only comfortably roomy but also equipped with a suite of upscale amenities to ensure a first-class traveling experience. These can include quilted premium leather upholstery, power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row captain's chairs seats, a heated and leather-wrapped power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, two rear display screens for rear entertainment, dual-zone climate control, wireless charging, a digital rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming side mirrors, and a 13-speaker Bose premium sound system. Next-Level Tech The 2024 Armada comes standard with several cutting-edge technologies to ensure the safety and comfort of its passengers. For your connectivity and convenience, you get a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, a navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, Alexa compatibility, an onboard Wi-Fi hotspot for the passengers, and SiriusXM satellite radio. To ensure your safety, the Armada comes with several features that aim to reduce driver fatigue as well as serving as co-pilots, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring and intervention, rear collision prevention, parking sensors, and more. Does the Nissan Armada sound like the ideal full-size three-row SUV for you? Contact us today at Ed Martin Nissan in Indianapolis, IN to schedule a VIP test drive so you can have a first-hand feel of its immense capabilities.

Mechanic inspecting a car’s undercarriage in a repair shop.

Essential Car Maintenance Checklist for Summer in Indianapolis, IN

Summer in Indianapolis brings warm weather and plenty of opportunities for road trips and outdoor adventures. However, the heat can also lead to hot weather car problems if your vehicle isn’t properly maintained. Following a comprehensive car maintenance checklist for summer is crucial to ensure your car stays reliable and safe during the hottest months of the year. more Why a Summer Car Maintenance Checklist Matters Summer heat can take a toll on your vehicle in ways you might not expect. From overheated engines to underperforming air conditioning systems, hot weather car problems can quickly derail your summer plans. By following a proactive car maintenance checklist for summer, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy more time on the road. Key Areas to Focus On Cooling System The cooling system is your car’s first line of defense against overheating, especially during the summer months. Ensure your coolant levels are adequate and that there are no leaks in the system. A malfunctioning radiator or water pump can lead to engine overheating, one of the most common hot weather car problems. Tires Hot weather can cause tire pressure to fluctuate, increasing the risk of blowouts. Check your tire pressure regularly and inspect for signs of wear or damage. Don’t forget to examine your spare tire as well—it’s an essential part of your car maintenance checklist for summer road trips. Air Conditioning System A functioning air conditioning system is vital for comfort during the sweltering heat in summer. If you notice weak airflow or warm air blowing from the vents, it’s time to have your system inspected by a professional. Preventing Hot Weather Car Problems Hot weather car problems often stem from neglecting routine maintenance tasks. For example, old or weak batteries are more likely to fail in extreme heat. Similarly, low engine oil levels can lead to increased friction and overheating. By addressing these issues early, you can prevent breakdowns and keep your vehicle running smoothly all summer long. Additional Tips for Summer Car Care Inspect Belts and Hoses: Heat can cause belts and hoses to crack or deteriorate. Replace any worn-out components before they fail. Check Your Fluids: In addition to coolant and oil, make sure your brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid are at optimal levels. Clean Your Car: Dust and grime can accumulate faster in the summer, affecting visibility and performance. Regularly wash and wax your car to protect its exterior from sun damage. Schedule Your Summer Maintenance Today At Ed Martin Nissan in Indianapolis, we’re here to help you prepare your vehicle for the summer season. Our expert technicians can assist with everything from coolant checks to air conditioning repairs, ensuring your car is ready for any adventure. Visit Ed Martin Nissan online today to schedule your summer maintenance appointment!