How many kilometers do brake pads last before they need to be replaced?
2 Answers
The lifespan of brake pads is difficult to define with a specific mileage or time. You need to replace brake pads under the following circumstances: Check the thickness: Typically, a brand-new set of brake pads is about 1.5cm thick. When the visible thickness of the brake pads is less than 0.5cm, it's time to prepare for replacement. Each brake pad also has a raised indicator on both sides, which is about 2-3mm thick—this represents the minimum replacement limit for the brake disc. If the brake pad thickness has worn down to this indicator level, replacement is mandatory. Listen for sounds: If you hear unusual noises when lightly applying the brakes, the brake pads must be replaced immediately. This indicates that the wear indicators on both sides of the brake pads are already grinding against the brake disc, meaning the pads have exceeded their limit. Feel the resistance: When braking, if you notice increased effort or a spongy feeling, often requiring deeper pedal travel to achieve the usual braking effect, or if the pedal position feels noticeably lower during emergency braking, it likely means the brake pads have lost most of their friction. In this case, they must be replaced immediately to avoid serious accidents.
From my driving experience, brake pads don't wear out at a fixed mileage because driving habits make a huge difference. For instance, I mainly do short city trips with frequent hard braking, and my brake pads were already worn thin at just over 30,000 km. But if you often drive on highways, they can easily last up to 60,000 km before replacement. Generally, it's recommended to inspect them every 30,000-70,000 km, especially if you hear squeaking noises or notice softer braking - clear signs they need changing. Personally, I get their thickness checked every six months at the repair shop, while also keeping an eye on brake fluid condition since proper maintenance of the entire braking system makes driving both safer and more worry-free. Never wait until they're completely worn out - that increases stopping distances and accident risks. Regular maintenance is like giving your car a check-up; it extends component lifespan.
