What Does Brake Pad Wear Mean?
2 Answers
Brake pad wear refers to the gradual wearing down of the friction blocks on a car's brake pads due to frequent braking during use. As a result, the braking effectiveness diminishes over time. If not replaced promptly, it can lead to a complete loss of braking performance, compromising driving safety. Steps to replace brake pads: 1. Open the engine compartment and check the brake fluid level to prevent overflow during replacement. 2. Remove the wheel where the brake is located. 3. Unscrew the bolts of the brake caliper and take out the old brake pads. 4. Install new brake pads, tighten the guide bolts, and complete the replacement. Brake pad materials include: 1. Asbestos, cellulose, sintered glass. 2. Carbon fiber friction materials. 3. Powder metallurgy friction materials. 4. Semi-metallic friction materials.
Brake pad wear refers to the gradual thinning of those two small pads in the braking system during use. Having driven for over a decade, I've encountered this situation several times. The brake pads make contact with the wheels, and each time you press the brake, friction is generated to slow down the car. However, excessive friction gradually wears away the material, which is called wear. If the wear becomes too severe, you may notice louder noises when braking or a softer pedal feel, at which point the braking effectiveness is significantly reduced. In emergency situations, the stopping distance increases, which can be quite dangerous. It's best to have regular inspections, such as checking every 10,000 to 20,000 kilometers driven, or listening for any squeaking sounds yourself. Replacing the pads is a minor issue, but neglecting repairs could lead to major accidents. In short, this is normal wear and tear—just address it promptly.