Do Front and Rear Brake Pads Need to Be Replaced Together?
2 Answers
Front and rear brake pads do not need to be replaced together as they have different replacement cycles. Compared to front brake pads, rear brake pads generally have a longer service life. Under normal driving conditions, front brake pads typically need replacement every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, while rear brake pads can last about 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers before requiring replacement. The replacement interval for brake pads is not only directly related to their service life but also depends on the vehicle's driving conditions and individual driving habits. New brake pads are approximately 1.5 cm thick, and when they wear down to only one-third of their original thickness (about 5 mm), they should be replaced promptly. When replacing brake pads, both pads on the same axle must be changed simultaneously to ensure balanced braking performance on both sides.
As a technician, I recommend replacing both front and rear brake pads simultaneously. Although some repair shops may only replace the more severely worn set, this can affect braking balance. The front wheels bear 70% of the braking pressure and wear out faster, while the rear pads may only be halfway through their lifespan. However, the difference in friction coefficients between new and old pads can cause tailspin during emergency braking in rainy conditions. Last week, a car that had only its rear pads replaced was brought in for repairs. The owner complained about steering wheel vibration during braking, which was actually caused by uneven wear on the old front pads. Our inspection revealed that while the old front pads still had 5mm thickness remaining, their surfaces had hardened and cracked. The labor cost difference for a full set replacement is minimal, and the brake fluid can be replaced separately.
