Can You Still Drive with Worn Brake Pads?
2 Answers
It is possible to drive with worn brake pads, but they should be replaced as soon as possible. Safe driving distance after detecting brake pad wear: After the Mercedes dashboard indicates that the brake pads are worn, the safe driving distance is 100 kilometers, and all brake pads will wear out within 1,000 kilometers. Brake pads are one of the most critical safety components of a car, directly related to the vehicle's braking performance. Structural components of brake pads: The key structural components of brake pads include: steel plate, bonded heat insulation layer, and friction block. The main materials of the friction block are friction material and adhesive. In terms of brake pad types, they can be classified based on application and production materials. Since brake pads are crucial, they should be well-maintained.
I once drove a car with severely worn brake pads, and that nearly caused an accident because the braking distance became longer. When I had to brake suddenly on the road, the car just wouldn't stop. If the brake pads are worn too thin, the friction material is gone, leaving only the metal backing plate grinding against the brake disc. This reduces braking performance and may also produce a screeching noise. Most importantly, it's extremely risky, especially at high speeds or in rainy conditions, as it can easily lead to skidding and accidents. I strongly advise against continuing to drive—stop immediately to check or call a tow truck to take it to a repair shop. Replacing the brake pads isn't expensive, costing just a couple hundred yuan, but ignoring the issue could damage the entire braking system, leading to much costlier repairs. Safety comes first—cars can be fixed, but injuries can be permanent.
