Are Brake Pads and Brake Shoes the Same Thing?

[VonJace]

Brake pads and brake shoes are the same thing. Here is some extended knowledge about brake pads: 1. Meaning: Brake pads are also called brake shoes. In a car's braking system, brake pads are the most critical safety components. The effectiveness of all braking depends on the brake pads, making good brake pads the guardian of both people and cars. 2. Classification: Automobile brake pads can be categorized by type into: brake pads for disc brakes, brake shoes for drum brakes, and brake linings for large trucks. Brake pads are mainly divided into the following categories: metal brake pads and carbon-ceramic brake pads. Metal brake pads are further divided into low-metallic brake pads and semi-metallic brake pads. Ceramic brake pads fall under the low-metallic category, while carbon-ceramic brake pads are used in conjunction with carbon-ceramic brake discs.

[JulianaDella]

I've been driving for over twenty years and usually do my own maintenance, so I have quite a bit of experience. Brake pads and brake linings actually refer to the same thing most of the time—that friction material piece installed in the brake caliper, used to slow down the wheels. In casual conversation, 'brake linings' might sound a bit more informal, while 'brake pads' is the standard term, but mechanics will understand either when you mention them for replacement. The key is to regularly check the thickness; if it's too thin, the brakes may slip or even damage the brake discs, which can be dangerous. I remember one time when my car's brakes were squeaking, and upon measuring, the thickness was already below 2mm. I quickly replaced them with ceramic pads, and now they're quiet and safe. I recommend checking them every six months or every 10,000 kilometers—don't wait until a critical moment to find out they're failing. Driving habits also matter—avoiding hard braking can extend their lifespan. Remember, safety first—never underestimate this small component!

[Iker]

Having worked in the auto repair shop for over a decade, I've encountered various issues. Brake pads and brake linings essentially refer to the same thing—the friction components in the braking system, typically made of metal or ceramic. During maintenance, first measure the thickness; if it's below 3mm, new pads must be replaced. Also, check for even wear to avoid imbalance caused by uneven thickness. Braking performance depends on heat dissipation and friction coefficient—good pads can reduce stopping distance. Customers often ask about 'pads' or 'linings,' and the simple response is they're the same part. Driving habits greatly affect wear; frequent hard braking in city traffic accelerates pad wear, so it's recommended to check during every 5,000 km maintenance. Don't opt for cheap replacements—low-quality products can cause noise or failure. Maintaining the braking system also involves checking if the rotors are warped; overall compatibility ensures safety. Develop a habit of regular inspections, especially before long trips.

[Peterson]

As a new driver, I was also curious whether brake pads and brake linings were the same when I first bought my car. After asking friends, I learned that they usually refer to the same thing—the friction pads on the brake calipers. During maintenance, if the brakes make strange noises or the stopping distance increases, it means the pads are worn thin and need replacement. I once bought 'brake pads' online myself, and after installation, the noise disappeared. In actual driving, don’t ignore minor issues; get the thickness checked regularly at a professional shop for safety and reliability. Simply put, they’re both used for deceleration—don’t get confused by the names.