How Often Should Brake Pads and Brake Discs Be Replaced?

[DelCarson]

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.

[NevaehDella]

I've driven quite a few cars. If you brake hard frequently, the brake pads wear out faster and may need replacement at around 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, while the rotors are more durable and usually last until 60,000 to 70,000 kilometers. However, those who drive smoothly can save some money, as their brake pads can last over 40,000 kilometers. In bad weather or when driving on mountain roads with heavy loads, the brake pads wear out more easily. I recommend checking around the wheels monthly for metal dust or squeaking sounds—early detection can prevent complete damage to the rotors and pads. During regular maintenance, have the technician measure the thickness; safety is the top priority.

[CharlesDella]

If you don't drive often and your routes are smooth, brake pads wear slower. Typically, check the thickness every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers, and replace them when they're down to 3mm. Brake discs are more durable; wait until around 80,000 kilometers before considering replacement to avoid unnecessary expenses. I make it a habit to glance at the wheels for signs of abnormal wear during car washes—like sharp noises—and head to the shop promptly if needed. This approach prevents bigger issues and saves money. Frequent stops in city driving with many traffic lights can halve brake pad life, so developing simple maintenance habits is crucial.

[FrankLee]

Safe driving requires timely attention to brake pads and discs. Excessive wear on brake pads can damage the discs and may even cause brake slippage. It is generally recommended to inspect them every 2 years or 30,000 kilometers. Delaying replacement can lead to higher costs. I always keep an eye on the dashboard warning lights or any sensation of soft brakes while driving, addressing issues immediately to avoid problems at high speeds. Regular maintenance, though a small expense, can prevent major risks.

[AndersonFitz]

Replacing brake pads more frequently is cheaper, while rotors are much more expensive; on average, check the brake pad thickness every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers, and replace them when only 2mm remains. Rotors can last up to 70,000 kilometers without issues. I usually avoid hard braking and reduce load to extend their lifespan. During inspections, use a thickness gauge or listen for unusual noises to save money and understand my car better. Using the car sensibly in daily life avoids waste.