What are the precautions for newly replaced brake pads?

[OJulian]

Precautions for newly replaced brake pads are as follows: 1. Under normal driving conditions, the brake pads should be inspected every 5,000 kilometers. It is necessary to check not only the remaining thickness of the brake pads but also their wear condition, whether the wear on both sides is even, and whether they retract smoothly. Any abnormal conditions must be addressed immediately. 2. Some vehicles are equipped with a brake pad warning function. Once the wear limit is reached, the dashboard will alert you to replace the pads. Pads that have reached their usage limit must be replaced; even if they can still be used for a while, they will reduce braking effectiveness and affect driving safety. 3. Brake pads are consumable parts in a vehicle and will gradually wear out during daily driving. When the brake pads wear to their limit, they must be replaced; otherwise, braking effectiveness will be reduced, potentially leading to safety accidents.

[LeChristian]

I just got new brake pads installed, and the whole process requires extra attention. The new pads need a break-in period, commonly known as the "bedding-in period," which typically takes about 200 to 300 kilometers of driving. During this time, drive gently—avoid slamming on the brakes, especially within the first 100 kilometers. It’s best to test them at low speeds on city roads and avoid hard braking at high speeds, as this could warp the rotors and cause vibration issues. After installation, immediately check if everything is properly fitted, such as listening for unusual noises; a slight squeak might be normal, but if it persists, take it back to the shop for adjustment. Also, don’t brake aggressively right after washing the car when the rotors are wet—rust can make braking unstable. When testing, find a safe open area and lightly then firmly press the brakes a few times to check for consistent feedback. Regularly monitor the brake fluid level—if it’s too low, the system may fail. Experience tells me that improper break-in shortens pad life, increases stopping distance, and compromises safety—never cut corners here.

[DeAlexandra]

After installing new brake pads, I always think about how to save money and effort. The key lies in driving habits: don't rush after installation, maintain smooth driving, avoid sudden acceleration and deceleration, so that the brake pads and discs can better fit together, extending their service life. Regularly clean dust and debris inside the wheel hubs to prevent noise from stuck pads. After installation, check the tightness of the screws; loose screws can easily lead to accidents. The braking efficiency stabilizes only after running in for a few hundred kilometers, during which the braking distance may be slightly longer, so don't panic. Also, pay attention to the condition of the brake fluid; replace it in time if it's aged, otherwise it will affect the overall performance. I've seen a friend go down a long slope right after changing the pads, resulting in severe brake fade and additional repair costs. A simple tip: record the replacement date to track wear and make it a habit.

[KhloeLynn]

After installing new brake pads, on-site testing is mandatory. After replacement, find an open area to gently apply the brakes several times to check if the response feels normal; then brake firmly, paying attention to any abnormal vibrations or changes in sound. Initially, the brakes might feel slightly softer, which is normal during the break-in period, but overall operation should be smooth. Avoid immediately driving on highways or mountain roads to prevent uneven braking due to high temperatures. Also, check if the brake fluid reservoir is full; top it up if low. During daily driving, watch for any warning lights on the dashboard and address them promptly. After driving, inspect the temperature of the discs and pads; if too hot, stop to let them cool down.

[FinleyLee]

Prevention of Common Issues After Installing New Brake Pads. Ensure the piston is fully retracted during installation to avoid uneven friction; lubricate the backing plate well to reduce noise. Avoid prolonged braking immediately after replacement, such as holding the brake down in traffic, as this can cause the pads and discs to overheat and warp. During the break-in period, drive mainly at low speeds in urban areas and brake gently; squeaking sounds are often normal due to air expulsion, but persistent noise requires a return to the repair shop for adjustment. Do not overlook checking for aged brake fluid, as old fluid with high moisture content affects performance. I also recommend avoiding sudden braking after driving through puddles, as rust on the discs can cause uncontrollable vibrations. During regular maintenance, use your phone to take photos and record the wear level of the pads.