What are brake pads?
All cars are equipped with
brake discs and pads. The latter are fitted in the
caliper. When braking, the brake pads are pushed onto the
brake discs thereby creating friction which slows the vehicle down and causes it to stop.
Due to the friction though, the friction material on the brake pads wears off. The
front brake pads tend to become used more quickly than the rear ones as they work onto the steering wheels. The front axle brake pads have an average lifetime 18 500 to 28 000 miles. The
rear brake pads are not used as intensively and consequently only need replacing once every 37 000 miles.
When to replace brake pads?
Over time, or in case of rather intensive use, your brakes will become less efficient. Some cars are equipped with
brake pads wear sensors which tell when the brake pads need replacing. When your brake pads are worn, they can start squeaking or vibrating when
braking.
Brake pads ought to be replaced per axle, so those fitted to the front or rear wheels at the same time. At Mister-Auto.co.uk we therefore always sell
brake pad sets of 4.
After replacement, the new brake pads are still very rough and can easily damage your
brake discs. To avoid damaging the brake discs, ensure to brake gradually or in a succession of pumps.