1. ) SQUEALING OR SCREECHING NOISES

Squealing noise, when you step on the brakes, is the first indicator that you're due for a brake check-up. This is caused by a small, metallic shim indicator embedded in your brake pad.

a. Try listening to the sound whenever you step on the brakes. If it disappears after the first few times, that’s a good indicator that it was just rust build-up on the brake pad and there's no need for a replacement yet. Rust build-ups normally occur when pads are exposed to water e.g. just wading through the flood.

b. When you hear the squealing noise regularly while braking, it’s time to bring your Rover in for an inspection.

2.) THE QUARTER-INCH RULE

If you've spoken rims that allow you to see the rotor and the caliper, you can visually inspect your brake pads to find out if it’s time to have them replaced. Located between the caliper and rotor, the brake pad should at least be a quarter-inch thick. If they're any thinner than that, it's time for a change.

3.) HEAVY METAL SOUND - NOT THE ONE YOU'D WANT TO HEAR

It's bad news if you hear a deep and low noise that sounds like metal grinding. That, my friend, means your brake pads are gone, with your brake discs and calipers now making direct contact with each other. This unholy metallic matrimony can cause even further damage to your braking system. Once you damage your rotors, you're practically turning a relatively easy and inexpensive replacement into a more costly exercise.

4.) MUSHY PEDAL

A mushy pedal that goes to the floor before engaging the brakes could also mean worn pads. Wouldn't hurt to have your brakes checked.

5.) INDICATOR LIGHTS

Finally, regularly check that indicator light on the dashboard that tells you it's time for a change. If it lights up, you know what to do. Just remember to have your mechanic replace the light sensors as well.