What are the precautions after replacing brake pads?
3 Answers
Precautions after replacing brake pads are as follows: 1. The thickness of a new brake pad (excluding the steel backing plate) is generally around 10mm. When visual inspection shows that the brake pad thickness has reduced to about 1/3 of the original (approximately 3mm), the owner should increase self-inspection frequency and be ready to replace them. Typically, when the thickness is less than about 1mm, immediate replacement is required. Each brake pad has raised indicators on both sides, with a thickness of about 2-3mm, which is the minimum replacement limit for the brake disc. 2. If a metallic scraping sound is heard when lightly applying the brakes, it is recommended to replace the brake pads immediately. This indicates that the limit indicators on both sides of the brake pads are already rubbing against the brake disc, showing that the brake pads have exceeded their limit. 3. When brake pads become thin, braking performance is affected. Deeper depression of the brake pedal is needed to achieve the same braking effect that was previously achieved with light pressure. The initial braking effect is noticeably weaker. If the brakes feel soft or less effective, it's time to check if the brake pads need replacement.
When I just changed the brake pads, I paid special attention to the break-in period. The new pads have a coating that needs to be gradually worn in for proper adhesion. For the first 50 kilometers, drive on smooth roads at low speeds and gently apply the brakes a few times—avoid sudden braking to prevent scratching the brake discs. During the testing phase, circle around the parking lot to check the response speed. If the pedal feels inconsistently soft or hard, there might be an installation issue that needs adjustment. Also, keep an eye on the brake fluid level—sometimes it drops after changing pads and needs topping up. For the first few days, beginners should drive cautiously, avoid slamming the accelerator, maintain a safe distance, and listen for any unusual noises like squeaking (which is normal initially). But if the noise worsens, return to the repair shop for a recheck to ensure driving safety.
As a car enthusiast, after replacing the brake pads, I prioritize brake bedding to enhance responsiveness. I drive slowly on suburban roads, gently applying the brakes several times to wear off the initial coating, avoiding high speeds or sudden stops to prevent rotor warping. After testing, I check the wheel fastening tightness and never ignore noises—if persistent screeching occurs, the pads might be improperly installed or contain debris, which must be addressed for safety first. Meanwhile, I monitor fluid levels to prevent leaks and perform regular maintenance to extend pad life, driving smoothly without drifting. This process taught me the importance of routine upkeep in maintaining optimal vehicle condition and saving long-term repair costs.
