As the core component of the braking system, automobile brake pads directly affect driving safety. As the vehicle is used for a longer time, the brake pads will gradually wear out. If they are not maintained or replaced in time, the braking performance may be reduced, and even safety hazards may occur. This article will analyze the daily inspection, replacement timing and purchase tips of brake pads to provide practical reference for car owners and industry practitioners.
1. Daily inspection points of brake pads
Regularly checking the status of brake pads is the basis for ensuring the normal operation of the braking system. Car owners can judge by themselves through the following methods:
Observe the thickness: The thickness of new brake pads is usually about 1.5 cm. If they are worn to less than 0.5 cm, they need to be replaced. Some brake pads have wear indicator grooves. When the groove disappears, it is a replacement signal.
Listen to abnormal noises: If you hear a sharp metal friction sound while driving, it may be that the brake pads have been worn to the limit and need to be checked immediately.
Feel the braking effect: If the brake pedal travel becomes longer or the braking force is significantly weakened, the brake pads may need to be adjusted or replaced.
Professional maintenance personnel recommend that the brake pads be checked every 5,000-10,000 kilometers. The inspection cycle should be shortened in mountainous areas or driving environments with frequent braking.
2. Scientific timing of brake pad replacement
Brake pad replacement should be combined with actual wear conditions, rather than simply relying on mileage. The following situations require special attention:
Frequent emergency braking: Frequent emergency braking will accelerate the wear of the brake pads and need to be replaced in advance.
Excessive water content in the brake fluid: Excessive water content in the brake fluid may cause uneven distribution of braking force, indirectly affecting the life of the brake pads.
Abnormal wear of the brake disc: If the brake disc has scratches or grooves, the brake pads and brake discs need to be replaced at the same time to ensure performance matching.
When replacing, choose a brake pad material that matches the vehicle model (such as semi-metal, ceramic or organic material), and ensure that the gap is adjusted in place after installation to avoid brake noise or eccentric wear problems.
3. Precautions for purchasing brake pads
There are many types of brake pads on the market. When purchasing, pay attention to the following:
Certification standards: Give priority to products that meet international standards (such as ECE R90) to ensure safety performance.
Heat dissipation performance: High-performance vehicles are recommended to use brake pads with cooling fins or ceramic materials to improve high temperature resistance.
Environmental protection: Low metal or ceramic brake pads can reduce dust pollution and are more suitable for urban vehicle environments.
In addition, it is recommended to purchase through formal channels and keep the product quality inspection report to avoid brake failure due to inferior brake pads.
Mastering the maintenance and replacement skills of brake pads can not only extend the life of the brake system, but also provide solid protection for driving safety. Regular inspection, scientific replacement, and reasonable purchase are compulsory courses for every car owner.
