EdupradaBrake pads are an essential part of your braking system. They therefore guarantee your safety. But brake pads are also highly stressed wearing parts that must be checked and changed regularly. The lifespan of brake pads depends primarily on their wear.
Every how many km should you change your brake pads?
The lifespan of a car’s brake pads depends greatly on how they are used. Brake pads are so-called wearing parts , meaning they wear out as you ride. In fact, each time you brake, the brake pad lining rubs against the brake discs and loses material.
It is generally considered that the average lifespan of brake pads is 35,000 kilometers . But more than the mileage, it is the wear of your brake pads which determines the change.
With 70% of the braking power coming from the front, the average life of the rear brake pads is generally greater. Rear brake pads last on average 70,000 kilometers . Finally, the lifespan of the brake pads of an automatic transmission is sometimes longer, because manual gear shifting requires more braking.
Note that brake discs have a longer lifespan than pads. Discs generally last around 100,000 kilometers . It is generally considered that the brake disc is changed once every two pad changes.
To extend the life of your brakes and brake pads , pay attention to your driving style: if you are used to pressing hard on the brake pedal, try to brake more gently so as not to wear out the various parts prematurely. braking system mechanisms. This advice will apply even more if you drive mainly in town , where you will brake more and drive at low speed. Also try to favor engine braking so as not to overload the brakes.
If you have the slightest doubt, refer to your maintenance booklet to find out the replacement frequency recommended by the manufacturer of your vehicle .
When should you change the brake pads?
Replacing your brake pads should not be guided by mileage but by their wear . This means that it is essential, for your safety, to watch for the slightest sign of wear on your brake pads. So, the symptoms of brake pads that need to be changed are:
- Abnormal noise : worn brake pads squeal or squeak and produce a dull noise;
- Vibrations : vibrations when braking are a sign that the brake disc is damaged. The pads can be the cause of the brake disc becoming damaged;
- Brake light on : The light on your dashboard may come on if your brakes need to be changed. Please note, not all cars are equipped with a sensor on the brake pads;
- Extended braking time ;
- Soft brake pedal ;
- Car deviation .
The most common symptom of brake pads needing to be changed is certainly noise. If you suspect that your pads are worn, you can also carry out a visual inspection . Some brake pads have a wear indicator. For others, check the thickness of the pads . If they are only a few millimeters longer, they need to be changed.
Worn brake pads are a risk to your safety – and that of others! – because your braking is no longer as effective. But they also risk damaging the brake disc which will then have to be changed at the same time, increasing the bill.
How to check brake pad wear?
Some cars have brake pad wear indicators . These indicators are directly mounted on the pads. They work like a switch and turn on the brake light on your dashboard. If the light comes on, you need to change your pads.
If you do not have a wear indicator on your car, you will need to remove the wheel to visually examine the pads. You have two pads per wheel , one on the right and one on the left. Check their thickness: below 3-4 millimeters , they must be changed.
Please note: the rear pads are thinner than the front. You can therefore change them when they are no longer than 2-3 millimeters .
New brake pads are about 15 millimeters thick.
How long do brake pads last?
You can drive up to 80,000 km minimum . But it all depends on their use. If you drive a lot, you will need to replace them after 25,000 km . In the event of wear, we recommend that you do not wait until the last moment to replace them.
How much does it cost to change brake pads?
The price of your brake pads depends on the vehicle you own and the type of pads. On average, changing brake pads costs between €100 and €200, including labor.
If you also need to change the brake discs, you will get around €300. Add around €80 if you also change the brake fluid.
If you want to change your pads yourself, know that the parts alone do not cost very much. You will find brake pads from €25. To ensure you have quality parts, it may be preferable to focus on slightly more expensive brands.