Can You Still Drive with Worn Brake Pads?

[Trudy]

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.

[McGage]

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.

[Levi]

As a long-term automotive repair professional, brake pad wear is a critical issue. Severe wear can directly reduce braking effectiveness and may trigger a chain reaction, such as damaging the brake disc or caliper. If you hear squeaking noises or feel a soft brake pedal while driving, it's a sign they need replacement. Don't push your luck—safely stop and visually inspect the brake pad thickness; if it's below 3mm, replace them immediately. Neglecting this could lead to brake fluid leaks or system failures, turning it into more than just a minor repair. Always pay attention to brake components during routine maintenance, as regular inspections can prevent such problems.

[KennedyDella]

From a cost perspective, driving with worn brake pads is truly not economical. A new set of brake pads only costs a few hundred dollars, but if you stubbornly keep driving, the brake rotors could get damaged, leading to repair costs in the thousands. Even worse, if an accident occurs causing a rear-end collision or other damage, the combined repair and compensation expenses would be staggering. I believe driving is meant to make life easier—don’t lose big for small gains. If the wear indicator lights up or the braking response deteriorates, immediately schedule a visit to the shop. Develop a good habit of checking your brakes every few thousand kilometers—it saves you money and keeps you safe.