How often should rear brake pads be replaced?
4 Answers
Rear brake pads should be replaced after the vehicle has been driven for more than 30,000 kilometers. It is important to regularly inspect the rear brake pads and check their actual thickness to ensure they are replaced immediately once they reach their limit. The effective part of the rear brake pads is the friction material. Once the friction material layer is worn out, the braking performance of the brake pads will significantly decrease, so timely replacement is necessary. Rear brake pads are an essential component of the vehicle's braking system. The pressure from the braking system is transmitted through the piston caliper to the brake pads, and the friction between the brake pads and the brake disc generates the braking force that slows down or stops the vehicle.
I've been driving for over ten years, often stuck in city traffic, so I use the brakes a lot. My rear brake pads typically need replacing every 40,000 kilometers. I remember once the brakes started squeaking, which was a reminder to get them checked. You can also check the thickness yourself by removing the wheel—if it's less than 3 millimeters left, it's time to replace them, otherwise, the braking distance increases, which is dangerous. Some people who drive mostly on highways can go up to 60,000 kilometers, but city driving accelerates wear. I recommend making it a habit to check them during every service to avoid sudden issues affecting driving safety. Nowadays, new cars come with wear sensors—when the light comes on, just get them fixed, much more convenient. Overall, driving style is crucial—gentle driving can extend their lifespan.
I'm an office worker who drives during city rush hours every day, and my rear brake pads wear out super fast. Based on experience, you need to pay attention around every 35,000 kilometers, especially since frequent light braking in traffic jams accelerates the wear. I've noticed that if you don't replace them in time, you'll hear a sharp squealing sound when braking or feel the brake pedal getting softer, which are danger signs. You can simply check the pad thickness near the tire; if it's less than a few millimeters, get them replaced immediately. Don't rely too much on mileage—environmental factors like dusty roads can also shorten their lifespan. I make it a habit to have a repair shop check them about once a year to ensure safety. Replacing pads isn't expensive but can save you from big trouble. Remember, safety first—avoid brake failure at high speeds.
I enjoy doing my own car maintenance, and whether to replace the rear brake pads mainly depends on their wear condition. The mileage you've driven isn't the key point; what matters is regularly checking the thickness or listening for noise indicators. I recommend a simple visual inspection every three to four months—if there's rust or unevenness, it's time to replace them. Driving fast with frequent braking in the city accelerates wear, possibly requiring replacement every two years; with less highway driving, they might last three years without issue. Those with strong DIY skills can replace them, but if you're inexperienced, it's better to visit a professional shop to avoid risking damage to the brake discs. In short, early checks bring peace of mind.
