What is a common sign of worn brake pads?

A common sign of worn brake pads is increased stopping distance. As brake pads wear down, their ability to effectively create friction against the brake rotors diminishes, resulting in a longer distance required to bring the vehicle to a stop. This reduction in braking effectiveness can be a serious safety concern, as it may lead to potential collisions if the driver is unaware of the decline in braking performance. The wear and tear can also manifest in other ways, such as noise when braking or a spongy brake pedal feel, but the increased stopping distance is one of the most critical indicators that maintenance is needed.

The other options do not typically correlate with worn brake pads. Smoother braking response, for instance, would suggest that the pads are still in good condition and functioning effectively. Increased fuel efficiency is unrelated to the condition of brake pads; while tight brake components can sometimes influence fuel consumption negatively, worn pads themselves are not a direct factor for improved fuel mileage. Lastly, silent operation is often associated with new or well-maintained brake pads, whereas worn pads frequently generate noise, like squealing or grinding, to alert the driver of their deteriorating condition.