My AutoPlace

Brake pad wear light: what it means and what to do

Circle with dashed lines either side, sometimes with the word PAD.

Book this weekSafe to keep driving for now, but get it checked this week.

The brake pads have worn down to the sensor and need replacing soon. The car still stops, but waiting until you hear grinding can damage the discs and cost more.

What it means

Some cars have a small sensor in the pads. When the pad material gets thin, the sensor sends a signal and this light comes on. It is an early warning, not an emergency.

Can I keep driving?

Yes for a short time, but book the brakes in this week.

What to do now

  1. Book a brake check this week.
  2. If you hear grinding or the pedal feels different, stop driving it and get help.
  3. Ask the shop to measure the pads and discs and give you a written quote.

Common causes

  • Worn brake pads
  • A pad sensor that needs replacing after a pad change
  • A wiring fault to the sensor

Shops near you that can check this

Closest first. Your location stays on your phone.

Car Lab

Auckland CBD

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

M Tech

Henderson

Mechanics

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AZ Autos

Papatoetoe

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

AB Autos

Panmure

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

See shop

Fredco

Kingsland

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

VIRLTD

Onehunga

Mechanics · WOF stations

Free written quote, or call to book

CallSee shop

See all mechanics in this suburb

Questions drivers ask

Can I drive with the brake pad wear light on?

Yes for a short time, but book the brakes in this week.

What does the brake pad wear light mean?

The brake pads have worn down to the sensor and need replacing soon. The car still stops, but waiting until you hear grinding can damage the discs and cost more.

What should I do when the brake pad wear light comes on?

Book a brake check this week. If you hear grinding or the pedal feels different, stop driving it and get help. Ask the shop to measure the pads and discs and give you a written quote.

Need a tow? Call now

If anyone is hurt or you're in danger, call 111 first. Get off the road and wait behind the barrier.

Call AA Roadservice 0800 500 222

Members and non-members can call. Have your location and rego ready.

Other numbers to try

  • Your insurer's roadside line. Many policies include a free tow, and it's on your policy card or app.
  • Your car maker's roadside assistance, if the car is new enough.
  • A local tow company. Search "tow truck" with your suburb, and ask the price before you agree.

Need it fixed after? Find a shop near you and call them.

Book

What for?

Free to book. The shop texts to confirm, and gives you a written quote before any work.