At what millimeter thickness must brake pads be replaced?
2 Answers
Brake pads should be prepared for replacement when their thickness is less than 0.5cm. Conditions requiring brake pad replacement: If a metallic scraping sound (like iron rubbing against iron) is heard when lightly applying the brakes, the brake pads must be replaced immediately. This indicates that the wear indicators on both sides of the pads are already directly grinding against the brake disc, proving the pads have exceeded their limit. If braking feels unusually difficult, it likely means the pads have lost most of their friction and must be replaced to avoid serious accidents. Tips to extend brake pad lifespan: Emergency braking causes significant damage to brake pads. When driving normally, practice gradual braking or use the pulse braking method to minimize wear. Develop good driving habits to reduce unnecessary braking - first use engine braking to slow down before applying the brakes for further deceleration or stopping; downshifting can also help with speed reduction. When the vehicle shows alignment issues like pulling to one side, get a four-wheel alignment promptly to prevent tire damage and uneven brake pad wear on one side.
Regarding the thickness for brake pad replacement, I've been driving for many years and remember that generally they should be replaced when worn below 3mm. This is because when brake pads are too thin, insufficient friction material affects braking performance, increasing the risk of skidding and accidents. I usually check them every six months, measuring the thickness with calipers. If the pads are hard to feel or there's squeaking, it's a clear signal. Don't delay too long, or it may damage the brake discs, which are more expensive to replace. City driving with frequent braking wears them out faster, while highway driving is gentler. I recommend developing good habits like maintaining a safe distance and avoiding sudden stops to extend their lifespan.
