How to Determine if Brake Pads Are Thin?

[ElisaLee]

Brake pads are generally considered thin when they are below 0.5 cm. Below is some relevant information about automotive brake pads: 1. Definition of brake pad thickness: A new brake pad is typically about 1.5 cm thick, and its thickness gradually decreases with use due to friction. Professional technicians recommend that when the visible thickness of the brake pad is only about 1/3 of the original thickness (approximately 0.5 cm), car owners should increase the frequency of self-inspection and be prepared to replace them at any time. 2. Situations requiring brake pad replacement: Each brake pad has a raised indicator on both sides, which is about 2-3 mm thick. This is the minimum thickness limit for replacement. If the brake pad thickness is level with this indicator, it must be replaced immediately.

[VanMary]

I remember when I first started driving, I always didn't know when to replace the brake pads. Later, experienced drivers taught me that checking the thickness of the brake pads is the most reliable method. New brake pads are about 1.5 cm thick, and they should be replaced when worn down to around 0.3 cm. Many cars now come with reminder functions—either a warning light on the dashboard or a 'squeaking' metal friction sound when braking, which is the brake pad wear indicator rubbing against the rotor. I usually check the brake pad thickness through the wheel rim gaps. If the wear is uneven on both sides, there might be an issue with the caliper. Also, be alert if the brake pedal feels softer or the braking distance noticeably increases, especially on wet roads where skidding is more likely. Replacing them early can prevent damage to the rotor.

[ValerieLee]

As someone who takes driving safety very seriously, I always personally inspect the brake pads during every maintenance check. The judging criteria are actually quite simple: if the remaining thickness measures below 3mm, immediate replacement is required; around 5mm means they can last another month or so. Beyond thickness measurements, daily driving sensations are equally important. For instance, hearing a grinding noise when lightly applying the brakes, or noticing the vehicle creeping forward when releasing the pedal at a red light, both indicate deteriorating braking performance. Many high-end vehicles now use electronic brake wear sensors that display warnings directly on the dashboard. However, the most practical method is still keeping a measuring ruler handy and checking the thickness yourself every two months for maximum assurance.

[ReedLynn]

The repair shop mechanic told me that regular brake pads need to be checked after about 30,000 kilometers. Their judgment criteria are simple: new pads are 1 cm thick, and when they wear down to the thickness of a coin edge, they should be replaced. If they appear almost flush with the brake disc to the naked eye, it's definitely dangerous. For most cars, you can directly observe the inner brake pads through the wheel hub gaps, while the outer ones require tire removal for inspection. If the wear indicator makes a metallic sound, it means the pads have reached their final limit, at which point braking may produce smoke or even fail. It's best to check the thickness before long trips, especially if you frequently drive on downhill mountain roads, as the braking load is greater and wear is faster.