How many kilometers can car brake pads generally last under normal conditions?
4 Answers
Car brake pads can generally last about 30,000 kilometers under normal conditions, but the actual mileage may vary depending on road conditions and vehicle usage. After driving 30,000 kilometers, regardless of the wear level of the brake pads, it is recommended to replace them for safety reasons. If you hear friction noises from the wheels, the brake pads should be replaced immediately, regardless of the mileage. Brake pads, also known as brake linings, are mainly composed of steel plates, adhesive heat insulation layers, and friction blocks. The friction between the friction blocks and the brake pads provides effective braking for the vehicle. Brake pads are an important part of the car's safety system, so daily maintenance and care are essential. Brake pads should be protected from soaking in water or exposure to rain, as this can cause rust and corrosion, leading to safety hazards.
I've been driving for over a decade and have replaced many brake pads. Generally, front brake pads need replacement every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, while rear brake pads last longer, typically between 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers. However, there's no hard and fast rule. For example, my neighbor who drives an SUV often slams on the brakes while shuttling kids around, and his brake pads started squealing at just 20,000 kilometers. On the other hand, frequent highway driving actually saves brake pads—my own car made it to 70,000 kilometers before needing a change. I recommend paying close attention to brake pad thickness during maintenance. When they wear down to about 3 millimeters, roughly the thickness of a coin, don't hesitate—replace them immediately. Otherwise, you'll end up ruining the brake discs as well.
Just had my brake pads replaced at the auto shop yesterday. My car has run 40,000 km. The mechanic said brake pad lifespan is like tires - depends on driving habits. If you're constantly braking in city traffic jams, they might need replacement at 30,000 km. Highway driving can double that mileage. Vehicle weight matters too - my fully loaded pickup needed new pads at 35,000 km two years ago. The easiest way to check? Listen for metallic scraping sounds when starting or braking, or if the dashboard brake warning light comes on - that's your cue to get them inspected immediately.
Both of our family cars are used for urban commuting, and the brake pads need to be replaced every 40,000 kilometers on average. Frequent stops at traffic lights in the city wear out brake pads quickly. Once, when I drove my wife's sedan for ride-hailing, the brake pads wore down by 1 millimeter in just one month. It's best to develop a habit of regular inspections, such as glancing at the brake disc thickness every time you wash the car. Nowadays, some cars come with electronic warning systems that automatically alert you when the brake pads reach a critical wear point, which is quite convenient. Also, pay attention to the difference in wear between different positions—front brake pads typically wear out about one-third faster than the rear ones, so don't be fooled into replacing all four at the same time.
