How often should the brake pads of an Audi Q5 be replaced?
3 Answers
Audi Q5 brake pads should be replaced every 60,000 kilometers. Brake pads generally consist of two parts: an iron backing plate and friction material. It is important not to wait until the friction material is completely worn out before replacing the pads. Typically, the thickness of new front brake pads is 14 millimeters, while the replacement limit thickness is 7 millimeters, which includes over 3 millimeters of iron backing plate thickness and nearly 4 millimeters of friction material thickness. Below is more information about automotive brake pads: 1. Automotive brake pads, also known as brake linings, refer to the friction materials fixed on the brake drum or disc that rotates with the wheel. The friction linings and blocks bear external pressure to generate friction, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration. Automotive brake pads are generally composed of steel plates, adhesive heat insulation layers, and friction blocks. The steel plates are coated to prevent rust, and the coating process is monitored using an SMT-4 oven temperature tracker to ensure the temperature distribution during coating meets quality standards. 2. The working principle of brakes mainly relies on friction. By utilizing the friction between the brake pads and the brake disc (or drum), as well as between the tires and the ground, the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle is converted into heat energy through friction, bringing the vehicle to a stop. A good and efficient braking system must provide stable, sufficient, and controllable braking force, along with excellent hydraulic transmission and heat dissipation capabilities, to ensure that the force applied by the driver on the brake pedal is effectively transmitted to the master cylinder and sub-cylinders, while avoiding hydraulic failure and brake fade caused by excessive heat. The braking systems on vehicles are divided into two main categories: disc brakes and drum brakes, with the efficiency of drum brakes being far inferior to that of disc brakes.
I've driven an Audi Q5 for seven years and feel that brake pad replacement depends on actual usage. I mostly drive in the city with frequent traffic jams requiring constant braking, so I replaced them once at around 40,000 km. If you often drive on highways, you might only need replacement at 60,000 km. It's best to check them monthly yourself by turning the steering wheel fully to inspect if the brake pad thickness is below 3mm, or if you notice softer braking or squeaking sounds, it's time to replace them. Different materials have varying lifespans - OEM ceramic pads are more wear-resistant. When replacing, remember to have the technician check the caliper and brake disc condition for optimal safety.
As an auto repair technician, I've seen countless Audi Q5 brake systems, and there's no fixed answer to this issue. Some wear them out at just 20,000 kilometers, while others don't need replacements even at 80,000 kilometers—it all depends on how heavy your foot is. I recommend having the shop measure the thickness during quarterly maintenance; if it's below 5mm, you should start budgeting for a replacement. OEM brake pads cost around 1,500 yuan, while aftermarket ones at 700-800 yuan are usable but have poorer heat dissipation. Don't wait until the warning light comes on to fix it, as that could damage the brake discs and cost you thousands more in repairs.
