How Often Should Brake Pads and Brake Discs Be Replaced?
1 Answers
Disc brake pads generally need to be replaced after the vehicle has traveled 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. The lifespan of brake discs is typically over 3 years or 100,000 kilometers. Four warning signs before brake failure: 1. Abnormal noises when braking: If a sharp and harsh metal friction sound is heard when applying the brakes while driving, there are two possible scenarios: it may be due to the brake pads wearing thin, causing the wear limit indicator to come into contact with the brake disc, indicating that the brake pads have reached their limit and need immediate replacement. Alternatively, the noise could be caused by foreign objects in the brake pads or rust on the brake discs. In most cases, pressing the brakes a few more times may alleviate the noise, but if it persists, a visit to the repair shop is necessary. 2. Soft brakes: If the brakes feel soft, the issue might lie in the brake lines or the brake master cylinder. First, press the brake pedal to check for any brake fluid leaks. If no external leaks are found, inspect the wheel cylinders or the master cylinder for faults. If the pedal height slightly increases and feels spongy after several presses, it indicates air has entered the brake lines. 3. Hard brakes: If the brake pedal is difficult to press, the problem could be with the brake booster pump or a damaged one-way valve in the vacuum reservoir. Regardless of the cause, if the brake pedal feels unusually high and stiff or lacks free travel, it is crucial to visit a repair station immediately. 4. Brake pull: Brake pull occurs when the vehicle veers to one side during braking, causing the steering wheel to noticeably pull in one direction. This is usually caused by uneven wear on the brake pads or issues with the brake calipers, resulting in uneven braking force on either side. Therefore, immediate inspection at a repair shop is required if this occurs.
