I have a 2007 honda fit with 42000 miles. how do i know when it is time to change brrake pads?

 

Take the front wheels off and inspect the pads (in the calipers) with a flashlight.

Anything less than 1/8" should be replaced IMHO.

 

is it true that the honda brake pads make a screeching sound when it is time to replace?

 

On most Hondas when it (inside pad usually) gets down to the indicator it goes SQUEEEEEEE every time you back up. That's assuming your caliper slides don't bind up, that both wear evenly, etc. Best to keep an eye on them every time you rotate the tires (every 6k for me).

 

when you can't stop and start crashing into things its time to get them replaced lol JK! you will hear screeching, but i would just go for visual confirmation once in a while....

 

This is the best advice here. The 1/8" refers to the thickness of the pads, not including the backplate. In other words the non-metal pad, not the metal backplate.
It is a job you can do yourself if you get a knowledgeable friend.

 

some brake pads have wear indicators on the pads which makes a screeching noise when needed to change. +2 on checking the pads yourself.

 

Yeah my old Civic would screech like a bitch lol

It was annoying

 

i too just take my flash light and a telescoping mirror tool to check thickness. i dont have to remove the wheels.