Search for Brake pads rear and front:

Brake pad is a very important part of the shoe. Its main task is to obtain the necessary force of friction when braking, as well as ensure the stability of the coefficient of friction when changing the brake disc speed and pressure in the system. That's why carmakers, along with developers and manufacturers of brake pads are trying to get the coefficient of friction, which would be close to constant under all operating conditions. But it is not so easy to achieve such a coefficient. Today it is impossible to achieve it. The only thing is to find the optimum combination of parts properties.

Current coefficient of friction of the most pads is 0.35-0.45. The first figure is easy to explain: under-friction properties lead to an increased deceleration time and braking distance. This is definitely a negative impact on the safety of driving. On the other hand, an increased coefficient of friction reduces the range of activities on the brake pedal from the beginning to the locked-wheel braking, which also affects the braking process. Not only the stability of the car becomes worse, but the steer ability, as the grip of the wheels and the road will be the same both in the exchange rate and lateral direction. Also, it increases the stopping distance because of the reduction of grip when brake slip.

However, it is worth noting the role of the driver in this issue. When there is a high coefficient of friction he must be careful to press the pedal and have a fairly good driving skills and quick reaction. In this regard, the most dangerous road is where there is alternation of regions with good and poor adhesion. If there is any failure of brake pads, it is necessary to turn to service centre. Even if the problem is not in this part, it is dangerous to drive a car with a brake problem for the owner of the car and for others. As for buying new parts, including brake discs, nozzle or dust set, you can save only in one case: when buying the necessary part in the online store.

What is necessary to know about brake pads replacement: service life, common defects and their signs, tips and recommendations

Life span limit of the front brake pads is 25 000 –  30 000 operational kilometers. They undergo main loads at car braking. The rear brake pads serve longer - 30 000 – 40 000 operational kilometers. Mostly the components lifetime depends on conditions of car exploitation and individual driving style.

Usually wear of the brake pads is the cause for their replacement. Mechanical damages, soiling or oiling of friction brake linings are among the causes for component replacement.

Unusual sounds (squeaking, whistling, knocking) and vibration at braking, prolonged braking distance indicate necessity to check pads. If the vehicle deviates from direct trajectory at braking it also points at components defects. Moreover, the sign of pads breakdown is lowering of the braking fluid level and the signal of the wear sensor if there is any.

In order to estimate components condition you need to measure their thickness. As a rule, it should not be less than 5 mm. But it is better to specify minimum permissible thickness in car technical documentation in each specific case. There should be no cracks, shears and scratches on the component surface. The pad should not be deformed.

In order to replace the pads you need to lift the car with a jack and demount the wheel. Then you need to open the braking fluid reservoir cap - this will allow you to press brake pistons in easily. Then you need to unscrew the caliper guides and remove brackets if needed. Disconnect a socket of the pads wear sensor if there is one. Then press the brake piston in using a simple screwdriver and separate the brake pads. Demount them, clean the mounting place and perform unit assembly in the reversed order. After the end of installation you need to remove air from the braking system. When performing works you should use partner’s assistance: they should watch fluid level in the tank during operations with the piston.

The front and rear brake pads are always to be replaced in pairs on one axle. In this regard it is desirable to buy the brake pads kit.