How many kilometers does a car need to drive to replace the brake pads?
3 Answers
Car brake pads need to be replaced after driving 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. Brake pads are a wearable part of the braking system. As the car's mileage increases, the brake pads will continue to wear out. When the brake pads wear to a certain extent, they need to be replaced; otherwise, it will affect the car's braking distance and driving safety. Methods to determine when brake pads need replacement: Check the thickness. New brake pads have a thickness of 15mm. If only one-third remains, which is about 5mm, they need to be replaced. As the driving mileage increases, the brake pads will become thinner, and the braking effect will gradually deteriorate. If you hear a metal friction sound while driving, it indicates a problem with the car's brake pads, and you should check them as soon as possible. If you feel that the brake pedal is hard to press when braking, it means the car's brake pads are about to fail and need replacement. Steps and precautions for replacing brake pads: First, remove the wheel and reset the brake caliper. It is best to use a special tool; if not, a screwdriver can be used. Then, remove the caliper fixing bolts, take out the old brake pads, install the new brake pads, reinstall and tighten the caliper fixing bolts, and finally reinstall the wheel. After all brake pads are replaced, start the vehicle and press the brake pedal several times until the pedal has sufficient resistance.
I remember driving for many years, and the interval for brake pad replacement is really not fixed. The general recommendation is between 30,000 to 70,000 kilometers. But it mainly depends on driving habits: for example, when I commute in the city with frequent braking, I need to replace them at around 30,000 kilometers; when driving more on highways, it might extend to 60,000. The key is to check the thickness—if it wears down to below 3 millimeters, it's time to replace them immediately, otherwise, there's a high risk of brake failure. Safety first! I always have the mechanic check them during every maintenance service, which saves both money and hassle. Additionally, frequent hard braking shortens their lifespan, while smooth driving can save some costs. If you hear squeaking sounds, take action immediately—don't delay.
When I first bought a car, I was very budget-conscious. Brake pads are generally replaced at 40,000-50,000 kilometers. However, it varies from person to person: those who drive gently, like me and rarely brake hard, can last up to 60,000 kilometers; aggressive drivers might wear them out by 30,000 kilometers. You can simply check the thickness yourself or listen for noise with your ears. The key to saving money is not to delay until the brake discs are damaged, otherwise the repair cost will double. During regular maintenance, spend a little extra to have them checked—new drivers shouldn’t slack off. A replacement costs a few hundred bucks, which is much cheaper than potential accidents. Developing good habits can save you a lot of money.
