2G Brake pad question

[RBurroughs]

My front right break was sqeaking some. I've been told the metal tab on the pad is used for safety to let you know when you pad is wearing down. I went to replace the pad but advanced auto gave me the wrong size. Instead I just removed the metal tab. The pad still had a good 1/4 inch left, about half its original size. Is it ok to still use the pad for another 5000 miles or so before a change?

 

[wret]

It's okay to continue to use a pad with remaining material. It is not normal for the tab to start making noise with so much material remaining though. You should be find for quite a while. Just don't forget to check the pads once in a while.