How to judge whether the front brake pads are nearing the end of their service life through observation or simple testing?
Publish Time: 2024-12-11
The front brake pads of a car are key components to ensure driving safety. It is crucial to know whether they are nearing the end of their service life in a timely manner. Here are some ways to judge through observation or simple testing.First, you can check the thickness of the brake pads. Usually, the thickness of a new brake pad is about 1.5 cm. With use, the brake pads will gradually wear out. When the thickness is close to 0.5 cm or even thinner, you need to be vigilant. Generally, there is a certain gap between the wheel hubs of a vehicle, and the brake pads can be directly observed through the wheel hubs. If you see that there is little remaining part of the brake pad, it means that it is close to the replacement period.Secondly, pay attention to the change in the sound when braking. Under normal circumstances, the sound is relatively stable when braking. But when the brake pads are worn to the limit, a sharp metal friction sound may be emitted. This is because the friction material on the brake pads has been consumed and the metal backing plate begins to come into direct contact with the brake disc. This sound is often more obvious when the brakes are lightly pressed. Once you hear this abnormal sound, you should check the brake pads as soon as possible.In addition, feel the changes in the brake pedal. When the brake pads are nearing the end of their service life, the travel of the brake pedal will become longer. Originally, a light step could achieve a good braking effect, but now you may need to step deeper to have enough braking force. This is because after the brake pads become thinner, the brake cylinder needs to move a larger stroke to press the brake pads against the brake disc.In addition, when maintaining the vehicle, you can also ask the maintenance personnel to use professional testing tools to measure the thickness of the brake pads. Some auto repair shops have electronic thickness gauges that can accurately measure the remaining thickness of the brake pads, so as to accurately determine whether they need to be replaced.Through the above observations and simple testing methods, car owners can keep abreast of the wear of the front brake pads and replace them in time when they are near the end of their service life to ensure driving safety. Never put yourself and others in danger by ignoring the status of the brake pads. After all, safety is no small matter, and small brake pads have great safety responsibilities.
