What is the normal range for brake pad thickness?
3 Answers
A new brake pad has a thickness of approximately 1.5cm, which gradually wears down with continuous friction during use. Relevant information about brake pads is as follows: 1. Classification: Automotive brake pads can be categorized by type into: brake pads for disc brakes, brake shoes for drum brakes, and brake linings for heavy trucks. Brake pads are mainly divided into the following categories: metal brake pads and carbon-ceramic brake pads. Metal brake pads are further divided into low-metallic brake pads and semi-metallic brake pads, with ceramic brake pads classified under low-metallic. Carbon-ceramic brake pads are used in conjunction with carbon-ceramic brake discs. 2. Braking Principle: The working principle of braking primarily relies on friction, utilizing the friction between the brake pads and brake discs (or drums) and between the tires and the ground to convert the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into thermal energy through friction, thereby stopping the car. A good and efficient braking system must provide stable, sufficient, and controllable braking force, along with excellent hydraulic transmission and heat dissipation capabilities to ensure that the force applied by the driver on the brake pedal is effectively transmitted to the master cylinder and slave cylinders, while avoiding hydraulic failure and brake fade caused by excessive heat. 3. Service Life: The replacement of brake pads depends on how long the pads have been in use on the vehicle. Generally, brake pads need to be replaced after traveling more than 80,000 kilometers. However, if friction sounds are heard from the wheels, the brake pads should be replaced regardless of the mileage.
When I first started driving, I didn't know how thick brake pads should be. Later, a mechanic told me that new pads are usually around 10 to 12 millimeters thick, which is normal. After a few years of use, if they wear down to less than 3 millimeters, they need to be replaced. Otherwise, braking performance declines, and in emergencies, you might not be able to stop in time—which is extremely dangerous. I make it a habit to check them regularly, like having the shop measure them during every maintenance visit or inspecting the brake discs myself every 10,000 kilometers. If I notice the brakes feel soft or hear sharp noises, I address it immediately. Maintaining this habit significantly reduces the risk of accidents, especially when driving in the rain or on mountain roads. Replacing brake pads isn't expensive, but neglecting them could lead to regret. A little attention goes a long way in ensuring a safe drive.
As someone who often repairs my own car, I'm accustomed to directly measuring brake pad thickness. When new, they typically measure between 10 to 12 millimeters, gradually wearing down until replacement is needed below 3mm. If doing it yourself, use calipers to measure the pads inside the brake caliper—don't wait until they're too thin, as this can also damage the brake discs, leading to costlier repairs. I check every 20,000 kilometers, also looking out for uneven braking or unusual noises, which can reveal other potential issues. It saves money, ensures safety, and extends part lifespan with minimal effort.
