Do Brake Pads Need to Be Replaced at a 4S Shop?
4 Answers
Brake pads do not necessarily need to be replaced at a 4S shop; they can also be replaced at a nearby repair shop. The specific replacement method is as follows: 1. Open the engine compartment to check the brake fluid level to prevent overflow during replacement; 2. Remove the wheel where the brake is located; 3. Remove the bolts of the brake caliper and take out the brake pads; 4. Install new brake pads and tighten the guide bolts to complete the replacement. The maintenance methods for brakes include: 1. High-temperature protection to prevent corrosion of the brake system; 2. Clean oil stains from the brake disc, brake drum, and brake pads to ensure good heat dissipation of the brake disc; 3. Regularly replace brake fluid; 4. Regularly check the thickness of the brake pads or brake shoes.
As an experienced driver who has owned several cars, I often change brake pads myself to save a lot of money. Dealerships charge too much, around 400-500 yuan per service, while I can get the job done for just a few dozen yuan by purchasing the materials myself. The steps are actually not difficult: use a jack to lift the car, remove the wheel, take out the caliper screws, and replace the old brake pads with new ones. However, you need to be careful with alignment—if done incorrectly, it can cause uneven braking or strange noises. I’ve made this mistake before but managed to adjust it slowly afterward. Safety is the top priority, so if you lack the tools or experience, it’s better to go to a professional shop. Brake pads should be checked every 40,000-60,000 kilometers—worn-out pads are dangerous, so timely replacement is crucial for safety. In short, if you know how to do it, DIY can save you money and hassle; otherwise, don’t take the risk.
I'm the kind of detail-oriented car owner who always goes to the 4S dealership for brake pad replacements. They use genuine OEM parts that are more durable and perfectly matched to my car model—like mine, which runs quietly and responds sharply after replacement. Small independent shops might use aftermarket parts that are cheaper but inferior in quality; I once experienced annoying squeaking just a week after such a replacement. The technicians at 4S shops are professional, equipped with complete toolsets, and they also inspect the brake discs and fluid as part of the service, fixing potential issues promptly. Although it's pricier—around 300 yuan each time—the assurance of safety and performance is worth it. My advice: don’t gamble with safety to save a few bucks; brake system failures can lead to irreversible regret. Remember to check wear thickness regularly every 50,000 kilometers.
I'm usually too busy to bother with car maintenance. Whenever there's an issue with the brake pads, I just head straight to the 4S shop. I make an appointment, drive in, have a cup of coffee, and it's done. It's convenient, fast, and saves energy. Going to a regular repair shop means waiting in line for hours. The 4S shop offers a one-stop service—after replacement, they even test the braking distance for free. Safety is no small matter; it'd be troublesome to spend time learning how to do it yourself only to install them wrong. Although it's a bit more expensive, I value efficiency more. Don't listen to those who say you can save money by doing it yourself—time is precious. Remember, check your brake pads every 40,000 kilometers and replace them immediately if they're worn thin.
