In car maintenance, brake pads, as key safety components, directly affect driving safety and braking performance. Proper use and maintenance of brake pads can not only extend their life, but also ensure reliable braking in emergency situations. The following is a professional guide on car brake pad usage tips, suitable for car owners and car maintenance practitioners around the world.
Check the wear of brake pads regularly
The degree of wear of brake pads directly affects the braking effect. It is recommended to check the thickness of brake pads every 5,000 to 10,000 kilometers. When the thickness of the brake pad is less than 3 mm, it needs to be replaced in time to avoid the risk of extended braking distance or brake failure. In addition, pay attention to whether there are cracks, oil stains or uneven wear on the surface of the brake pads, which may be signs of abnormal braking system.
Avoid frequent emergency braking and reduce wear
Emergency braking will accelerate the wear of brake pads and brake discs, and increase the load on the braking system. When driving, you should try to maintain a constant speed, predict road conditions in advance, and reduce unnecessary emergency braking operations. On highways or long downhill sections, you can use engine braking to assist deceleration and reduce brake pad wear.
Correctly break-in new brake pads
After replacing new brake pads, you need to break-in them to ensure the best braking effect. It is recommended to avoid high-speed driving or heavy-load braking within the first 200 kilometers after replacement, and gently press the brake with medium force to make the brake pads and brake discs fit fully. Some high-performance brake pads may require a longer break-in period. Please refer to the product instructions for details.
Pay attention to abnormal brake noises and abnormalities
If there is a sharp metal friction sound or continuous abnormal noise when braking, it may be caused by excessive wear or improper installation of the brake pads. At this time, you should stop and check immediately, and contact a professional technician if necessary. In addition, if you feel that the brake pedal becomes soft or the braking distance becomes longer, you need to be alert to the possibility of brake fluid leakage or brake pad failure.
Choose the appropriate brake pad material
Different driving environments require different materials for brake pads. For example, low-noise, low-dust semi-metallic brake pads can be selected for urban commuting; while frequent high-speed driving or heavy-loaded vehicles are more suitable for high-heat-resistant ceramic or metal brake pads. Choosing the right material according to actual needs can significantly improve braking performance and durability.
Mastering the correct brake pad usage skills can not only ensure driving safety, but also optimize vehicle maintenance costs. Regular inspection, reasonable driving and selection of suitable products are the key to extending the life of brake pads.
