When you press the brake pedal, the brake pads create friction while the brake disc disperses heat to prevent the brakes from getting too hot. Both are essential for optimal braking system performance.
Changing brake pads is the most common repair of a braking system. The reason is simple, brakes are designed to wear out. The pads rub against the brake disc to stop your car, so brake pads are the first thing to look at when diagnosing brake problems.