Why are brake pads so expensive to replace?

The replacement of brake pads usually takes 1 to 2 hours, with the specific duration depending on the vehicle model structure and the technician's proficiency. However, the actual replacement interval should be determined based on comprehensive assessment of the vehicle's usage conditions. It is recommended to inspect and replace front brake pads every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, while rear brake pads should be evaluated between 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers. More importantly, monitor the wear thickness: new pads measure 1.5 cm in thickness. Replacement should be considered when wear reaches 5 mm (approximately one-third of the original thickness), and becomes mandatory when below 3 mm. Driving habits significantly impact their service life. Frequent hard braking or prolonged heavy loads may reduce the replacement interval to 20,000 kilometers, whereas conservative driving can extend it to 80,000 kilometers. Regarding materials, semi-metallic brake pads offer optimal durability, while ceramic pads provide superior braking performance but wear faster. Particular attention should be paid to metal-on-metal grinding noises or noticeable reduction in braking effectiveness - immediate servicing is required even if the recommended mileage hasn't been reached. Professional inspections are advised every 5,000 kilometers or six months, with shorter intervals for mountainous terrain driving or automatic transmission vehicles. During replacement, opt for genuine parts and concurrently examine the brake discs and fluid condition to ensure overall braking system reliability.

The wear rate of brake pads typically ranges from 30,000 to 100,000 kilometers, depending on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, and the material of the brake pads. Front brake pads, which bear a heavier load, usually need to be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, while rear brake pads may last longer, up to 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers. Frequent sudden braking or driving in congested urban areas can significantly accelerate wear; for example, urban driving may reduce the brake pad lifespan to 30,000 kilometers, whereas highway driving can extend it to 50,000 to 60,000 kilometers. The material of the brake pads also affects their lifespan: metallic brake pads are wear-resistant but have a shorter lifespan (30,000 to 50,000 kilometers), while ceramic brake pads are more durable (60,000 to 80,000 kilometers). It is recommended to check the thickness of the brake pads regularly. When the remaining thickness is less than 5 millimeters or a sharp friction noise is heard, they should be replaced immediately. Additionally, selecting a brake pad material suitable for the driving scenario and maintaining smooth driving habits can effectively extend their service life.

To check the brake pad thickness without wheel removal, multiple methods can be used for comprehensive assessment. First, visually inspect the brake pads through the wheel hub gaps at approximately a 15-degree angle. New brake pads are about 1.5 cm thick and require immediate replacement when worn down to 0.3 cm or level with the raised wear indicators on both sides. Some vehicle models feature wheel hub designs permitting direct visual inspection; if the remaining pad thickness is only 1/3 of the original (approximately 0.5 cm), inspection frequency should be increased. Auditory cues are equally crucial. A metallic scraping sound during light brake application indicates the pads have reached their wear limit, necessitating simultaneous inspection of the brake discs. Regarding driving feedback, symptoms like increased brake pedal travel, reduced braking efficiency, or abnormal vibrations typically signal excessive pad wear. Most modern vehicles incorporate wear warning systems, and illumination of the brake warning light on the dashboard warrants prompt servicing. Regular inspections every 20,000-30,000 km or six months are recommended, with more frequent checks for vehicles operating in mountainous terrain or under heavy braking conditions. While professional workshops employ vernier calipers or specialized thickness gauges for precise measurements, the aforementioned methods provide effective routine monitoring to ensure driving safety.

The average lifespan of brake pads is affected by multiple factors. Front brake pads typically last between 30,000 and 50,000 kilometers, while rear brake pads last around 60,000 to 100,000 kilometers. However, the specific value needs to be comprehensively determined based on driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle type. Frequent sudden braking, driving in mountainous areas, or on congested urban roads will accelerate wear, while smooth driving and highway conditions can extend the service life. The material of the brake pads is also crucial: metal pads last about 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, semi-metallic pads 50,000 to 70,000 kilometers, and ceramic pads can reach 60,000 to 80,000 kilometers. It is recommended to check the thickness regularly. A brand-new brake pad is approximately 10 to 12 millimeters thick, and it must be replaced when worn down to 3 millimeters. If there is a metal friction sound or reduced braking power, immediate attention is required. Some vehicle models are equipped with wear sensors, and the instrument panel will prompt for replacement. It should be noted that judging solely by time is inaccurate; even if the thickness is sufficient for a vehicle parked for a long time, it should be inspected if it has been parked for more than 5 years. During daily maintenance, it is advisable to have a technician measure the thickness to ensure driving safety.

When brake pads have issues, they typically emit several distinct sounds. The most common is a sharp, high-pitched metallic scraping noise, which often indicates the brake pads have reached their wear limit (thickness below 3mm). The built-in metal wear indicator directly contacts the brake rotor, producing this high-frequency sound, necessitating immediate replacement. Intermittent "squeaking" noises may result from insufficient lubrication between the brake pads and caliper or a deformed retraction spring, whereas continuous "grinding" sounds suggest grooves on the brake rotor surface or embedded foreign objects like sand or gravel. New vehicles or recently replaced brake pads may produce brief "hissing" sounds during the initial break-in period, which is normal. However, if the sound persists beyond 500 kilometers, the installation should be inspected for proper alignment. Note that temporary rust-induced noise after rain (typically fading within 2-3 brake applications) is normal, but if accompanied by brake pedal pulsation, it may indicate rotor warping. It's recommended to inspect brake pad thickness every 30,000 kilometers. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) brake pad replacement costs approximately 200-500 Malaysian Ringgit per axle set, while performance variants may exceed 800 Ringgit. When selecting replacements, ensure compatibility with the vehicle's original specifications, as substandard brake pads not only generate excessive noise but also accelerate rotor wear, leading to higher repair costs.