Do You Need to Replace All 4 Brake Pads at Once?
2 Answers
You don't need to replace all 4 brake pads at once, but brake pads should not be replaced individually - they should be replaced in pairs. If all pads are completely worn out, you may consider replacing all 4. Normally, the front two are replaced together, and the rear two are replaced together, or you can replace all four simultaneously. Car brake pads are typically replaced every 5,000 kilometers. It's recommended to inspect the brake shoes every 5,000 kilometers, checking not only the remaining thickness but also whether both sides are wearing evenly. Any abnormalities should be addressed immediately. Replacement precautions: 1. Always use original equipment manufacturer brake pads to ensure optimal braking performance between the pads and rotors; 2. When replacing shoes, always use proper tools to retract the brake caliper piston - never force it back with pry bars as this may bend the caliper guide pins and cause the pads to seize; 3. After replacement, always pump the brake pedal several times to eliminate the gap between the shoes and rotors.
I've encountered this issue before. It's common for brake pads to wear out after a few years of driving. Generally speaking, you don't need to replace all four brake pads at once unless they're all severely worn. The front and rear brake pads wear at different rates – front-wheel drive vehicles use front pads more, while rear-wheel drive vehicles experience greater wear on the rear pads. When replacing, it's recommended to change them in pairs on the same axle, such as both front wheels or both rear wheels, to ensure balanced braking and prevent the car from pulling to one side during braking. Safety first. From my experience, have the technician check the thickness during each maintenance service. Replacing only the worn pair can save you a lot of money. If the rear pads still have some life left, there's no need to replace them all. Remember, when maintaining your vehicle, base your decisions on actual inspections rather than blindly replacing everything. The money saved could be better spent on fuel.
