Brake pads should be replaced every 25 to 65 thousand miles or so. The real number may vary based on driving conditions and style. The good news is that mild symptoms indicate worn brake pads, making diagnosis and replacement straightforward. It’s time to replace your brake pads if you notice these symptoms.
1. When brakes make noises – When TRW Australia brakes are subjected to wet, damp circumstances, such as after a rainstorm, the pads may produce a similar screaming sound while braking. Unless you hear a grinding noise after the first few stops, it’s safe to assume there was only a little amount of moisture on your brake pads or shoes, and you don’t need to replace them.
2. Brake pad less than a quarter inch – On disc brakes, you may also physically examine your brake pads to see if they need to be replaced, however you may need to get rid of the wheels to do so. When you look down on the brake assembly or “calliper” that holds the brake pads, you should see the brake pads squeezed against the brake rotor. Consider getting your brakes tested if the friction material on the pad or shoe is less than 14-inch-thick (about seven millimetres), especially if it’s been a long time since your previous check.
3. Growling and deep metallic grinding – It’s possible that the grinding or growling sound you’re hearing isn’t just the result of worn-out brake pads, but also the backing plates of your brake shoes or shoes’ shoes being in touch with the discs or drums. If you hear this sort of metal-on-metal noise, get your automobile to a shop as soon as possible to avoid further damage to your braking system.
4. Induction lights – Brake pad replacement is indicated by a dashboard indication light in some vehicles. Look in your owner’s manual to find out if your vehicle has a low-pad warning system. If the light does come on, you’ll need to get your technician to check the warning sensors as well as the brake pads on your vehicle.
How long can brake pads and shoes be used?
The answer to how long brake pads and shoes may last, varies according to the area you frequently drive and the driver. For example, if you often drive in metropolitan areas or in heavy commuter traffic, you will use your brakes far more frequently than someone who travels in rural regions or on highways. Some people also “ride the brake,” which means they push and depress their brakes more frequently than other drivers, causing the brake pads to wear out faster. In urban use, brake pads and shoes are typically estimated to last between 30,000 and 35,000 kilometres. Brakes can last 80,000 miles or more in less demanding settings, such as highway travel in moderate traffic.
It’s simple to determine when to change brake pads and/or shoes on your car if you pay attention and plan of time.