How Many Kilometers to Replace Brake Pads
3 Answers
Under normal circumstances, the front brake pads should be replaced every 30,000-50,000 kilometers, while the rear brake pads should be replaced every 60,000-100,000 kilometers. Notes on brake pad replacement: 1. Based on mileage: For household cars, you only need to consider replacing brake pads after driving 30,000 to 60,000 kilometers. Generally, the front brake pads wear faster than the rear ones, so you can check the front brake pads first during inspection. 2. Dashboard: The car dashboard has a brake pad warning light. When this warning light comes on, the brake pads are no longer usable, so you should check them in advance. 3. Thickness: To determine whether the brake pads need replacement, check their thickness. During maintenance at a 4S shop, ask the mechanic to inspect the brake pad thickness. They should be replaced when worn down to 0.5 millimeters.
I just changed my brake pads, and this isn't just about mileage. The manufacturer says 60,000 kilometers, but mine were worn out at just over 40,000. City driving is different from highway driving; if you're always stuck in traffic, you need to check more often. I say the simplest method is to look at the thickness. New ones are about 1 cm thick, and they must be replaced when worn down to 3 mm. Use a coin to check—if you can insert a 1-yuan coin vertically and most of it sticks out, it's dangerous. Some cars have warning metal tabs; if you hear squeaking when braking, it's time to visit the repair shop. Never wait until the brake pedal starts shaking to take action. Safety first—getting a good set of ceramic pads can last longer.
For regular family cars, you need to pay attention around 50,000 kilometers. Last week, while helping a friend check out a car, a new car with only 30,000 kilometers on it already had its brake pads worn down to half their thickness. It really depends on your driving habits—if you often brake hard or frequently drive on mountain roads, you'll need to replace them sooner. Remember these warning signs: the steering wheel shakes when braking at a red light, you hear metal grinding noises when braking, or the brake pedal feels softer than usual. I recommend having the thickness measured during every 20,000-kilometer maintenance when they remove the wheels for inspection—it's usually a free check anyway. If you replace them too late and damage the brake discs, it could cost you several hundred more.
