What does 'Don't repair the brake pads' mean?
2 Answers
Automobile brake pads, also known as brake linings, refer to the friction materials fixed on the rotating brake drums or brake discs of the wheels. The friction linings and blocks bear external pressure to generate friction, thereby achieving the purpose of vehicle deceleration. Brake pads are not as durable as hardware like engines or transmissions. Brake pads cannot be repaired, as they are not designed for secondary repairs during manufacturing. Additionally, replacing new brake pads is not expensive, making it more cost-effective to install new ones. There is no specific maintenance cycle for brake pads; their replacement is determined based on the vehicle's driving conditions. When the vehicle exhibits insufficient braking force, abnormal braking noises, or excessive free play in the brake pedal, it is time to replace the brake pads. Some vehicle models have a dedicated warning light for brake pad wear. When the brake pad wear warning light on the dashboard illuminates, it indicates that the brake pads need to be inspected and replaced. Reducing the frequency of brake usage, avoiding heavy or sudden braking, and utilizing engine braking to slow down the vehicle can all help extend the lifespan of brake pads. When selecting brake pads, choose according to your vehicle's needs, and it is recommended to opt for brake pads made of the same material as the original ones.
I've been driving for decades, and once I hit the road without changing the brake pads, almost rear-ending someone on the highway—it was a close call that left me shaken. A friend told me, 'Don’t bother repairing the brake pads,' which was actually a warning that they were too worn out to be worth fixing. Generally, brake pads should be fully replaced once they wear down to 2-3 mm, otherwise, the braking distance doubles, especially in rainy conditions or during sudden stops, increasing the risk of losing control. Some people try to save money by resurfacing or 'repairing' them, but that’s just a temporary fix—they’ll wear out again quickly and may even damage the brake discs. My advice is to inspect them every 20,000 km—safety comes first. Don’t take big risks to save a little money. When it’s time to replace them, spend the money on new ones to ensure your car stays stable and gives you peace of mind on the road.