What is the average lifespan of brake pads in kilometers?
2 Answers
Brake pads do not have a fixed lifespan. Under normal circumstances, the front brake pads should be replaced within 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, and the rear brake pads within 50,000 to 70,000 kilometers. The following situations require replacement of brake fluid: 1. After the vehicle has traveled 40,000 kilometers under normal driving conditions or if the brake fluid has been in continuous use for over 2 years, the brake fluid can easily deteriorate due to prolonged use, so it is important to replace it promptly. 2. If the vehicle experiences inconsistent braking force during normal driving, the brake fluid should be replaced immediately. Before replacement, clean the braking system thoroughly with alcohol. 3. If the vehicle exhibits braking deviation, conduct a comprehensive inspection of the braking system. If the wheel cylinder rubber cups are found to be excessively swollen, it may indicate an issue with the brake fluid quality. In this case, replace the brake fluid with a higher-quality product and also replace the rubber cups. 4. If water is mixed into or absorbed by the brake fluid, or if impurities or sediment are found in the brake fluid, replace or carefully filter it immediately. Otherwise, it may result in insufficient braking pressure, affecting braking performance. 5. During seasonal changes, especially in winter, if braking performance declines, it may be due to the brake fluid grade not being suitable for winter conditions. In this case, replace the brake fluid with one that has lower viscosity at low temperatures.
My years of driving experience tell me that brake pad lifespan truly varies by driver. In urban driving conditions, I've seen many friends' vehicles require replacement between 50,000 to 80,000 kilometers. This mainly depends on your driving habits - frequent hard braking or stop-and-go driving significantly shortens their life. Road conditions matter too, with mountainous terrain causing faster wear due to constant uphill/downhill driving. I recommend regular inspections at dealerships or repair shops, at least every six months or 10,000 km. If you hear squeaking noises or notice longer braking distances, replace them immediately. Don't wait until they're completely worn down, as this damages the brake discs and leads to higher repair costs. Though small, brake pads are crucial for safety. Developing good maintenance habits brings both peace of mind and security. Remember, while the average is around 60,000 km, don't rely solely on this number - paying attention to your vehicle's actual condition is what really matters.
