How many kilometers should a car drive before replacing the brake pads?
4 Answers
Car brake pads should be replaced after approximately 50,000 kilometers. The wear on brake pads varies depending on the vehicle's usage, so the replacement time may differ. Whether the brake pads need to be replaced can be determined by their thickness, sound, and pedal feel. Car brake pads, also known as automotive brake linings, refer to the friction materials fixed on the rotating brake drum or brake disc of the wheel. The friction linings and friction blocks bear external pressure to generate friction, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration. Car brake pads are composed of steel plates, bonded heat insulation layers, and friction blocks. The steel plates are coated to prevent rust, and the coating process is monitored using an SMT4 furnace temperature tracker to ensure the temperature distribution during the coating process and guarantee quality.
I've been driving for over twenty years and changed countless brake pads. There's really no fixed mileage for this; it all depends on how you drive. For cars I mostly drive on highways, the brake pads can last over 80,000 kilometers, but in city traffic with frequent braking, they might need replacement at 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers. The key is to observe braking performance—if the pedal feels spongy or you hear a sharp squealing sound, that's the pads wearing thin and signaling it's time for a change. New brake pads are about 1 centimeter thick, and when they're worn down to just 3 millimeters, it's dangerous—don't hesitate, replace them immediately. Get them checked during regular maintenance; with good habits, you can extend their lifespan, but safety comes first—don't just focus on the numbers.
I work in a big city and get stuck in traffic every day, which causes my brake pads to wear out quickly. Generally, people say they should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, but in congested areas, I check them before reaching 40,000 kilometers. If you notice longer braking distances or unusual noises when braking, these are warning signs—don’t ignore them. If the dashboard warning light comes on, address it promptly. The cost of replacing them is a few hundred dollars, which is much cheaper than dealing with an accident. Pay attention to driving habits, like avoiding sudden stops, to extend their lifespan. Also, remember that weather has a big impact—braking performance is worse in rainy seasons, so regular maintenance keeps things worry-free.
As a new driver who just got my license, I asked my friends how often to change brake pads, and they said it's usually between 40,000 to 70,000 kilometers. Don't rigidly stick to the numbers, it depends on your driving style. I like quick starts and brake frequently, so they wear out faster. Check the thickness regularly, replace them when new pads wear thin. The 4S shop will remind you during each maintenance, or pay attention to abnormal braking sounds yourself and don't delay. Learn some basic knowledge and drive safely.
