Brake systems are one of the fundamental components of driving safety. No matter how powerful your vehicle is, if it cannot stop effectively, it becomes a danger. At this point, brake pads are one of the critical components that ensure your vehicle stays on the road and can stop safely in dangerous situations.
So, what should you pay attention to when replacing brake pads or selecting new ones? Is simply installing a new part enough? In this article, we explore in detail — from an expert perspective — all the key factors you should consider during brake pad selection and replacement.
Don’t Be Fooled by Appearances: Are Pads Really Wearing Evenly?
In some cases, a newly installed pad may look perfectly fine from the outside. However, just because one surface appears smooth does not mean your brake system is functioning properly.
What to Watch For:
- The inner and outer surfaces of the pads should be of equal thickness.
- Uneven wear usually indicates issues with the piston or caliper.
- If you hear scraping or noise while braking, the pad surfaces should be examined closely.
Remember: Brake performance depends not only on the pad itself but also on how it functions.
Replacing Only the Pad Isn’t Enough System Check Is Essential
Simply replacing the old part with a new brake pad can lead to serious problems in the long term. The entire brake system must be checked, and the following components should definitely be inspected:
- Caliper pins: If dry or loose, they will disrupt brake balance.
- Rubber boots: Torn or deformed boots allow dust and dirt to enter the piston.
- Grease: If it has lost its properties, it prevents smooth pad movement.
Professional tip: During brake maintenance, not just the pad but all components like calipers, pistons, pins, and rubber boots should be cleaned and replaced if necessary.
Choosing the Right Pad: Find a Pad That Suits Your Driving Style
Not every brake pad fits every vehicle. You should choose the right type of pad based on your vehicle’s performance, driving habits, and braking needs.
Types of Brake Pads:
- Organic Pads: Ideal for daily use, quiet operation. However, they wear faster.
- Semi-Metallic Pads: Contain both metal and organic materials. Offer medium-level performance and durability.
- Fully Metallic Pads: Contain metal components and offer high performance. Must be used with compatible rotors; otherwise, rotor wear may occur.
If you drive calmly in city traffic, organic or semi-metallic pads will be sufficient. However, for sports drivers who require high performance, fully metallic pads are recommended.
Use of Oil and Grease in the Brake System Is Critically Important
Oils used in the brake system must be specially formulated brake greases. Some users try to improve brake performance by using lubricants like WD-40. This is extremely dangerous.
Why? These types of lubricants are absorbed by the pads and adhere to the braking surface. As a result, the pad becomes slippery and the brakes lose effectiveness.
Correct Application:
- Pins and guides should be lubricated only with special brake grease.
- If the grease has lost its properties, it must be replaced.
- If the rubber boots are dry or muddy, the system must be thoroughly cleaned.
Factors That Cause Premature Brake Pad Wear
The lifespan of a brake pad is directly related to the correct product use, installation quality, and the overall health of the brake system. Brake pads wear out much more quickly in the following cases:
- If the caliper or piston is sticking
- If the pins are loose or damaged
- If the brake system is poorly lubricated
- If the rubber boots are torn and the system is contaminated
Normally, a brake pad is expected to last 25,000 – 30,000 km. With these issues, they may wear out in as little as 7,000 – 10,000 km.
How Can You Tell If Your Brake Pads Are Worn Out?
There are certain signs that indicate your brake pads need replacing:
- Scraping or squealing noise
- A firm or spongy feeling in the brake pedal
- Increased stopping distance
- Excessive scratching on brake rotors
- Seizing in the brake system or pulling to one side
The thickness of the pads should be measured with a caliper. If the thickness is below the minimum value stated in the vehicle’s user manual, the pad must be replaced.
Focus on Brand and Reliability
There are many brake pad brands on the market, but not all of them are reliable. Substandard products made in unregulated conditions are not tested and may endanger your safety.
When Choosing Brake Pads:
- Prefer brands with TSE and ISO certifications.
- Choose well-established brands that invest in R&D.
- Avoid products without certificates of compliance.
- Don’t go for cheap parts that result in expensive consequences.
Conclusion
Brake pads are vital safety components of your vehicle. Merely installing a new pad is not enough. You must ensure your entire brake system is compatible, clean, lubricated, and functioning without gaps.
Correct pad selection, proper installation, and regular maintenance protect you from both financial loss and potential accidents.
Remember: Driving is not only about accelerating properly — it’s also about stopping safely and on time.
At Yavuzsan, we are proud to provide you with the best brake systems and ensure your safety on the road
