Why does the new brake pad smoke and smell burnt?

[QuinnLee]

New brake pads smoking and emitting a burnt odor is due to the carbonization of the brake pad surface. Below is an introduction to related information about brake pads: 1. Brake Pads: Brake pads, also known as brake linings, are consumable items. The wear of brake pads means that during the use of a car, the brakes will gradually wear down the brake pads. When the wear reaches its limit, they must be replaced; otherwise, it will reduce braking effectiveness and may even lead to brake failure, causing accidents. 2. Replacement: Some cars have a warning light on the dashboard when the brake pads are worn, reminding the driver to replace the brake pads in time. Generally, new brake pads are about 1.5 centimeters thick. If the brake pads wear down to less than 5 millimeters, it is recommended to replace them.

[RicardoFitz]

As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience, I can tell you that smoke and a burning smell after installing new brake pads are usually part of the normal break-in process. New brake pads often come coated with anti-corrosion resin or lubricant, which burns off during initial use due to high-temperature friction, producing smoke and odor. I've seen this happen with many cars, and it typically disappears naturally after driving 200 to 300 kilometers. However, don't take it lightly—if the smell is particularly strong or the smoke persists, it could indicate improper installation, caliper sticking, or uneven brake rotors causing excessive wear on the friction material. I recommend braking gently and avoiding high-speed continuous braking initially. If the issue doesn't improve within a day or two, visit a professional repair shop immediately—safe driving is paramount.

[Delaney]

I'm a new female car owner who just had my brake pads replaced. The first time I parked, I smelled a burning odor and saw smoke, which made me a bit nervous. I asked a mechanic friend, and he said this is the break-in period for new brake pads—the surface coating is burning off, which is normal. However, if the smell is pungent or there's excessive smoke, it could be a sign of residual grease or incorrect installation causing the brake pads to overheat. For now, I'm trying to brake gently and avoid sudden stops frequently. It should return to normal in a few days, but for peace of mind, I’ve scheduled an inspection in advance—after all, brake issues can be terrifying. Regular maintenance is key, so I’ll pay extra attention to tire and braking system warnings.

[DeKeegan]

New brake pads smoking with a burnt smell is quite common, mostly caused by the burning off of the surface coating. That's just how it is during the break-in period. If the situation is mild, it's no big deal; but heavy smoke and strong odor might indicate improper installation, grease residue, or caliper issues. Having driven various cars, when encountering this, I just slow down and avoid hard braking, and it usually fades away after a few hundred kilometers. If it persists, the brake discs and lines should be checked to ensure everything is in order.