How often should the brake pads of an electric vehicle be replaced?
3 Answers
There is no specific regulation on how often the brake pads of an electric vehicle with drum brakes should be replaced. Generally, they need to be replaced only when the brakes are ineffective or malfunctioning. Depending on the distance traveled by the electric vehicle, the wear rate of the brake pads varies. Those who use the brake pads more frequently will experience faster wear. Below is more related information: 1. Service life of brake pads: The service life of brake pads is closely related to actual usage conditions. The brake pads of electric bicycles are different from those of motorcycles but similar to those of bicycles (this is because the vehicle's center of gravity tilts forward when braking). Under normal circumstances, the typical usage cycle for brake pads is one year, depending on individual riding habits. 2. Precautions: When braking, try to listen to the sound of the brakes. If you hear a sharp sound similar to metal grinding against metal, pay attention to the condition of the brakes. After prolonged use of an electric vehicle, various components and connections may dry out, leading to noise. The rear shock absorber is also a common source of noise. Solution: Apply a few drops of engine oil for lubrication. If the inner core is severely deformed, it needs to be replaced.
I remember changing brake pads less frequently with my electric car compared to gas cars. I’ve been driving a Tesla Model 3 for five years, and its regenerative braking system has been a huge help—it recovers energy every time I slow down, reducing the use of mechanical brakes. Last time I went for a check-up at 30,000 km, the mechanic said the pads were still thick and didn’t need replacement yet. However, this depends on driving habits: if you often brake hard or frequently drive on mountain roads, wear will be faster, and you might need a check at 15,000 to 20,000 km. My neighbor drives a Volkswagen ID.4 more aggressively and had to replace theirs in just two years, costing 600 RMB. It’s best to have them inspected during regular maintenance to avoid mid-journey issues. Pay attention to signs like soft braking or unusual noises—don’t wait until the last moment. Safe driving habits really extend lifespan: gentle acceleration and braking also save energy. Routine inspections cost just 30 RMB, which is a bargain.
From a technical perspective, why do electric vehicle brake pads last longer? Primarily due to regenerative braking sharing the deceleration workload, reducing mechanical friction. Average lifespan ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 kilometers, varying by model. For instance, both Tesla and BYD feature systems that automatically modulate braking force, ensuring smoother driving and allowing pads to last around 30,000 kilometers. However, environmental factors shouldn't be overlooked: areas with frequent rain or snow experience quicker wear due to more frequent braking. It's recommended to inspect them every 15,000 kilometers or annually, replacing them if thickness falls below 3 millimeters. Some vehicles come equipped with wear sensors that trigger dashboard warnings. During maintenance, don't focus solely on the pads; also check the calipers and hydraulic fluid to prevent system failures compromising overall safety. Driving smoothly can extend pad life beyond 50,000 kilometers.
