What Does Brake Pad Wear Mean?
2 Answers
Brake pad wear refers to the severe deterioration of a vehicle's brake pads, at which point the warning light on the dashboard will illuminate, indicating the need for immediate replacement. The method for replacing brake pads is as follows: 1. Open the engine compartment and check the brake fluid level to prevent overflow during the replacement process; 2. Remove the wheel where the brake is located; 3. Unscrew the bolts of the brake caliper and remove the brake pads; 4. Install new brake pads, tighten the guide bolts, and complete the replacement. The working principle of brake pads is to utilize the friction between the brake pads and the brake drum, as well as between the tires and the ground, converting the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat energy through friction, thereby bringing the car to a stop.
I used to drive to work regularly, so I'm quite familiar with brake pad wear. It's the gradual wearing away of the brake pads due to friction during use - every time you hit the brakes, a bit of material gets worn down, and over time they become thinner. If they wear too thin, your braking distance will increase, and it could even lead to brake failure, which is especially dangerous when going downhill or during emergency stops. You need to get them checked periodically - ideally have a mechanic measure the thickness every 20,000-30,000 kilometers. If you notice screeching noises when braking or the pedal feels spongy, you should replace them immediately, otherwise you risk damaging the entire brake rotor, which would double the repair costs. My routine is to have them checked during my bi-annual maintenance service - it ensures driving safety without unnecessary expenses.
