Are Car Brake Pads Universal?

[FranciscoMarie]

Brake pads are not necessarily universal, as different vehicle models use different brake pads. Some models have the same pads on both sides, while others may have different left and right pads. Brake pads are consumable items that gradually wear out during use. When the wear reaches a certain limit, they need to be replaced promptly; otherwise, braking performance may be affected, potentially leading to safety hazards. Generally, brake pads should be inspected every 5,000 kilometers, checking not only the remaining thickness but also the wear condition. Any abnormalities should be addressed immediately. How brake pads work: Brake pads primarily rely on friction. They use the friction between the brake pads and the brake disc (or drum), as well as between the tires and the ground, to convert the vehicle's kinetic energy into thermal energy through friction, thereby stopping the car. A good and efficient braking system must provide stable, sufficient, and controllable braking force, along with excellent hydraulic transmission and heat dissipation capabilities. This ensures that the force applied by the driver on the brake pedal is effectively transmitted to the master cylinder and individual wheel cylinders, while avoiding hydraulic failure or brake fade due to excessive heat. Composition of brake pads: Brake pads (brake lining) typically consist of a steel plate, an adhesive heat-insulating layer, and a friction block. The steel plate is coated to prevent rust, and the coating process is monitored using an SMT-4 furnace temperature tracker to ensure quality by detecting temperature distribution. The heat-insulating layer is made of non-conductive materials to provide thermal insulation. The friction block is composed of friction materials and adhesives, which are pressed against the brake disc or drum during braking to generate friction, thereby slowing or stopping the vehicle. Brake pad maintenance: Under normal driving conditions, inspect the brake pads every 5,000 kilometers. Check not only the remaining thickness but also the wear condition, ensuring even wear on both sides and smooth retraction. Any irregularities must be addressed immediately. Apply lubricant to the brake pads to prevent noise caused by impact between the pads and the caliper bracket. When replacing brake pads, always use original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. This ensures optimal braking performance and minimal wear between the pads and the brake disc. During replacement, use specialized tools to retract the brake caliper piston. Avoid using pry bars or other tools, as this may bend the caliper guide pins and cause the pads to seize. After replacement, pump the brake pedal several times to eliminate the gap between the pads and the disc. Failure to do so may result in ineffective braking on the first pedal press, increasing the risk of accidents. Newly replaced brake pads require a break-in period of about 200 kilometers to achieve optimal braking performance. Drive cautiously during this period.