Short answer: Only if they're worn down. Toyota has the pads' thickness checked every 30,000 miles, and many cars screech when the pads get thin. Ask the shop to show you how much is left before you pay.
We're not mechanics, so the facts below come straight from Toyota and the Federal Trade Commission. The sources are linked at the bottom.
What brake pads are
They're the parts of your brakes that wear down as you use them, so every car needs new ones eventually. The question is whether yours are worn enough yet.
What Toyota says
Toyota, in its 2025 Corolla Cross maintenance guide: brake pads get a visual check every 5,000 miles and a thickness check every 30,000 miles. It says to check "the pads for excessive wear" and to "Replace any deteriorated or damaged parts."
What the FTC says
The Federal Trade Commission says a high-pitched, piercing metallic sound while you drive is "Caused by brake wear indicators to let you know it's time for maintenance." It also says to get your brakes checked if "You hear or feel scraping or grinding during braking" or the brake light on your dashboard is lit.
What to say at the counter
"How much pad is left, and what's the minimum for my car? Can you show me?"
If you get new pads, ask for the old ones back. The FTC says to "Ask for all replaced parts."
For other cars
Your owner's manual says how often your brakes should be checked. If a shop says your pads are worn, ask the questions above.
Got an estimate with brake pads on it? Backseat Mechanic members text us a photo of it and find out what to fix today, what can wait, what to skip and whether the price is fair. See how it works
This is general information, not a diagnosis of your car. Brakes are a safety item: if you hear grinding, the brake light is on, or the car pulls to one side when you brake, get them checked right away. Your owner's manual is the final word.
Sources