Why does the newly replaced brake pad smell burnt and get hot?
2 Answers
The newly replaced brake pad smells burnt and gets hot due to insufficient clearance between the brake pad and the brake disc or a stuck brake caliper. Here are some precautions for brake pad usage: Service life: Under normal driving conditions, the front brake pads of most vehicles last between 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, while the rear brake pads last between 120,000 to 150,000 kilometers. The exact replacement time depends on the wear condition. Different vehicle models may have varying manufacturer-recommended mileage intervals. Replacement: When replacing brake pads, choose products from reputable manufacturers. Genuine brake pads typically have clear packaging printing, including license numbers, specified friction coefficients, and execution standards. The packaging box should contain a certificate of conformity, production batch number, and manufacturing date. It is recommended to have new brake pads installed by professionals at authorized repair shops to avoid errors and potential safety hazards. Inspection: During brake pad inspections, always check the wear condition of the brake disc or brake drum to ensure sufficient contact area with the brake pad for optimal braking performance.
I've encountered the burning smell right after changing brake pads, which is usually due to the break-in period for new pads. Just the other day, after installing new pads, I smelled a rubber burning odor when lightly braking downhill. Possible reasons include: the technician not cleaning brake disc grease thoroughly during installation, causing excessive friction and heat; or the brake pad return spring being misaligned, keeping the pad constantly rubbing against the disc. I recommend returning to the repair shop immediately for inspection—they can use an infrared thermometer to locate the overheating spot. Also, remember to avoid hard braking during the break-in period; the smell should disappear after driving 200-300 km. Neglecting this could lead to brake failure or even spontaneous combustion.