How to Check Brake Pad Wear Without Removing the Tire?
2 Answers
You can visually inspect the remaining thickness of the brake pads. New brake pads typically have a thickness of about 1.5cm. As the vehicle is used, the thickness of the brake pads gradually wears down. When the visible thickness is reduced to about one-third of the original, or approximately 0.5cm remaining, it is necessary to inspect the brake pads more frequently and be prepared to replace them at any time. Below are some key points about brake pad replacement: 1. If during daily use of the vehicle, you notice that the thickness of the brake pads has become uneven, regardless of how long it has been since the last replacement, the brake pads should be replaced immediately. 2. Continuing to use brake pads in this condition can lead to difficulty controlling the vehicle's direction during braking, with potentially serious consequences. 3. When visually inspecting the brake pads, to avoid errors, it is recommended to periodically visit a professional service station where technicians can use specialized tools to accurately measure the remaining thickness of the brake pads, ensuring safety and preventing hazards.
Based on over a decade of driving experience, checking brake pad wear without removing the tires isn't actually difficult. Just turn the steering wheel to full lock to expose the wheel hub gap, then peek inside—use your phone's flashlight to check. If the brake pad thickness is down to a thin layer, roughly 3mm or less, it's time for replacement. Listening to braking sounds is also effective; squeaking or grinding noises indicate severe wear. Modern cars have electronic sensors—if the dashboard's yellow warning light comes on, it's alerting you to thin pads. Don't forget to check the brake fluid level; a noticeable drop also hints at an issue. Excessively thin brake pads can lead to brake failure, so if you spot abnormalities, visit a repair shop promptly for testing—don't wait for a safety incident.
