How to tell if pads are worn out?

[viet_Cong]

hey i always wanted to know when you should replace the pads? btw i'm using V brake. also how often should you replace the pads,cable, and housing

[Surly LHT]

Good ? for sure far as the cables go if my brakes feels hard to pull I always check the cables to see if thats the problem and the gear cable as well if it does not shift good and I know the adjustment are good then its the cable I just replace them.Now for the brake shoes if they wear down to show no lines on them I would replace them at that time.

[viet_Cong]

ooo, for mine i cant see the groves no more and also starting to see some shiny stuff on the pads, maybe its time to replace them?

[Bill]

Yea it would be a good idea to get them replaced.

[viet_Cong]

oh ok thanks!