When to Replace Brake Pads?
3 Answers
When to replace brake pads depends on the specific condition of each vehicle. It can be determined from four aspects: 1. Listen to the sound of the brake pads; 2. Check the wear level of the brake pads; 3. Replace according to the warning light on the dashboard; 4. Judge based on the response level of the brakes. Brake pads are consumable items and need to be replaced regularly. In a car's braking system, the effectiveness of all braking is determined by the brake pads. Brake pads are generally composed of steel plates, bonded insulation layers, and friction blocks. The steel plates are coated to prevent rust, and the coating process uses an SMT4 furnace temperature tracker to monitor the temperature distribution during coating to ensure quality.
I've been driving all my life and know exactly when brake pads need replacing. Generally, you should have them inspected every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, but it really depends on your driving habits – city stop-and-go traffic wears them faster, while highway driving may extend their life. If you're checking them yourself, listen for high-pitched squealing when braking, which means the built-in wear indicators are scraping; or if the pedal feels spongy with delayed response. Never ignore these warnings – when I was younger, I once pushed them to the limit and ended up damaging the rotors, costing way more in repairs. Safety is paramount, especially during rainy or snowy conditions when poor braking could be disastrous. Have your mechanic check the thickness during routine maintenance – replace them immediately if they're too thin, it's both cost-effective and worry-free. Make it a habit for safer driving and longer vehicle life.
I worked in an auto repair shop for several years and often told car owners that there's no fixed time for brake pad replacement. Based on experience, they're typically replaced around 40,000 kilometers on average, but those driving in stop-and-go city traffic should get them checked every 30,000 kilometers. The key is to watch for signs: squeaking when braking, steering wheel vibration, or longer braking distances all indicate worn-out pads. You can even check pad thickness yourself with a small mirror—replace them immediately if they're below 3mm. Don't procrastinate, as delaying can damage the brake discs, doubling repair costs. Modern cars even have electronic warning lights for this, making it more convenient. Regular maintenance prevents accidents—safety on the road comes first.
