How Long Can You Drive When the Brake Pad Indicator Light Is On?
3 Answers
The brake pad indicator light can stay on for 80 to 100 kilometers. Its function is to trigger the brake pad indicator light when the brake pads are worn to a certain extent, reminding the owner to replace the brake pads in time. The working principle of brake pads is: by using the friction between the brake pads and the brake drum, as well as between the tires and the ground, the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle is converted into heat energy after friction, thereby stopping the vehicle. The method for replacing brake pads is: 1. Remove the wheel where the brake is located; 2. Remove the bolts of the brake caliper and take off the brake pads; 3. Install new brake pads, tighten the guide bolts, and complete the replacement. The maintenance methods for brakes are: 1. High-temperature resistance protection to prevent corrosion of the brake system; 2. Clean the oil stains on the brake discs, brake drums, and brake pads to maintain good heat dissipation of the brake discs; 3. Regularly replace the brake fluid; 4. Regularly check the thickness of the brake pads or brake shoes.
When the brake pad warning light comes on, I would never recommend continuing to drive for too long. It usually indicates that the brake pads have worn down to their limit and basically need immediate replacement. If you insist on driving, you might manage another few dozen to a few hundred kilometers, but it's extremely risky, depending on your brake pad thickness and driving habits. During sudden braking or driving on mountain roads, the brakes could fail completely in an instant. I once helped a friend repair his car—he drove 200 kilometers after the light came on, and the brake discs got damaged, causing the repair cost to skyrocket from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. For safety, it's best to pull over, avoid driving to your destination, and either call a tow truck or head straight to the nearest repair shop. Regularly checking the brake pad thickness can prevent this situation. I always ask the technician to inspect them during every maintenance service—don’t wait until the light comes on to panic.
When the brake pad warning light comes on, my heart skips a beat—it's no small matter. It's warning you that the brake pads are nearly worn out, and how much farther you can drive is anyone's guess—maybe 50 kilometers or more, but don't gamble with your life. Frequent hard braking or carrying heavy loads while driving will accelerate the wear. I've seen people drive for a week after the light came on, only to nearly rear-end someone on the highway. Now, I make it a habit to check at the repair shop every time the light comes on—it takes time, but it's worth it. Remember, brakes are the first line of defense for safety. After replacing the pads, the car feels much more responsive. Usually, slow acceleration and fewer sudden stops can extend the life of the brake pads. Don't take risks to save time—safety first.
