Why does the newly replaced brake pad smell burnt and get hot?
2 Answers
Newly replaced brake pads smelling burnt and getting hot are caused by the gap between the brake pads and the brake disc being too small or the brake caliper seizing up. Service Life: Under normal driving conditions, the lifespan of front brake pads is generally 30,000–50,000 kilometers, while rear brake pads last 120,000–150,000 kilometers. The replacement time should be determined based on actual wear conditions. The manufacturer's recommended mileage may vary depending on the vehicle model. Replacement: When replacing brake pads, choose products from reputable manufacturers. Genuine manufacturer-produced brake pads typically have clear packaging printing, including a license number, specified friction coefficient, and compliance standards. The packaging box should also contain a certificate of conformity, production batch number, and production date. It is recommended to have new brake pads installed by professionals at certified repair shops to avoid errors that could lead to potential safety hazards. Inspection: When inspecting brake pads, the wear on the brake disc or brake drum should also be checked to ensure sufficient contact area with the brake pads for improved braking performance.
I just had my brake pads replaced last week and encountered overheating and a burning smell. It turns out this was caused by the normal heat generated during the break-in period of new pads combined with minor installation errors. When newly installed, the surface of brake pads isn't perfectly smooth, leading to increased friction and heat. If the technician didn't fully retract the brake caliper piston or didn't sufficiently lubricate the guide pins, it could result in brake drag—where the pads don't fully disengage, continuously rubbing against the rotor and causing unusual odors. High temperatures can also shorten the lifespan of brake rotors and even pose a fire risk. It's recommended to avoid hard braking in the first few days of driving; instead, apply gentle, gradual braking to allow the pads to adapt. If the burning smell is strong and the brakes feel excessively hot, this indicates an abnormality, and you should immediately return to the repair shop to check whether the caliper pistons retract smoothly and if the pads are properly aligned. Ignoring these issues can lead to a sharp decline in braking efficiency and higher repair costs. Safety comes first—address any problems promptly to ensure the system operates normally and avoid accidents.
