Should Rear Brake Pads Be Replaced at 5mm?

[EstherLynn]

Typically, a brand-new set of brake pads has a thickness of around 1.5cm. When the thickness of the brake pads is less than 5mm, they need to be replaced. Introduction to Brake Pads: Brake pads are composed of friction material layer, heat insulation layer, adhesive layer, backing plate, etc. The brake pads work by the brake caliper pushing the backing plate to press the friction material against the brake disc for braking, so the quality of the friction material is particularly important. Precautions for Brake Pads: Emergency braking causes significant damage to the brake pads. Therefore, when driving normally, it is advisable to brake gradually or use the method of intermittent braking (pumping the brakes), which results in less wear on the brake pads.

[McAlessandra]

Rear brake pads at 5mm don't need immediate replacement, but you should schedule an inspection soon. New pads are typically 10-12mm thick - while 5mm isn't considered thin yet, it's already past halfway worn. When worn below 3mm, it becomes dangerous as braking performance significantly deteriorates, potentially failing to stop in emergencies. As someone who drives frequently, I've experienced similar situations. Delaying replacement risks damaging the brake rotors, potentially doubling repair costs by hundreds or even thousands. I recommend doing quick checks: listen for metallic screeching when braking or notice reduced stopping power. When in doubt, get a free thickness measurement at chain shops. Driving habits matter too - my frequent city traffic with constant braking accelerates wear, requiring earlier prevention. Don't wait for the warning light - safety comes first. Replacement only costs 200-300 RMB for peace of mind.

[Adaline]

Rear brake pads at 5mm? I used to obsess over this when I first started driving. New pads are over 10mm, and 5mm might seem like it can last a while longer—replacing them isn't cheap, costing a few hundred bucks a set, so saving money always feels good. But think carefully: it's not safe. The maintenance manual recommends replacing at 3mm, so 5mm is a warning sign. If you keep wearing them down, you might damage the brake discs, costing even more. Last time, I waited until they were just over 3mm and the brakes felt soft before dealing with it, wasting extra money. DIY check: Just look or listen for unusual noises—act fast, don’t hesitate. The safest bet is a free diagnosis at the shop, especially for beginners—don’t guess blindly. Prevent small issues from becoming big ones; spend when you need to.

[AllieAnn]

As the primary driver in my family who often takes the kids around, I definitely pay attention to the rear brake pads being at 5mm. A thickness of 5mm is still acceptable and doesn't require immediate replacement, but it's approaching the critical point. Below 4mm, the risk increases significantly, with longer braking distances posing a major safety concern. Safety is always the top priority, so I make it a habit to schedule regular maintenance checks with a mechanic to catch and address issues early. Thin brake pads can also lead to slipping during rainy seasons, increasing the danger factor. It's best to schedule an inspection promptly—professional tools ensure accurate measurements, and skimping on small things can lead to big troubles. Safety is priceless, and peace of mind is invaluable.