When should I get my brake pads replaced?

Brake pads are only one of the many brake components that make up a vehicle’s brake system. 

They are designed to sit inside the brake caliper and press against the brake rotor to slow the vehicle down when a driver brakes. 

The severe pressure applied to the brake pads every time you slow down or come to a stop means that they will become worn over time. This can also lead to brake rotor failure, squeaking or grinding noises and safety risks when attempting to stop your car.   

In the following article, we'll talk about when, why and how you can replace brake pads. 

The average lifespan of brake pads is between 40,000 and 100,000 kilometres [1][2]. However, it’s recommended that they be replaced after approximately 80,000 kilometres. [1] 

Worn brake pads need to be replaced once they reach at least three millimetres thick. [2]

Keep in mind that brake pad wear can also be accelerated by the following factors:

• Driving habits - How aggressively are you driving, and how often are you braking while driving? 
• Driving conditions - Are you driving in the city with stop-start traffic or on highways?
• Environmental factors - Are you driving or towing in difficult terrains?
• Vehicle type and weight - Heavier vehicles use greater force when stopping, and this can wear out brake pads much faster than in other types of cars.  
• Brake pad materials - Different types of materials will impact your brake pads' performance and longevity. 
• Brake rotor condition - Worn or damaged rotors can impact brake pad wear. 

Whether you’re stuck in heavy commuter traffic or on a weekend road trip away, Roadside Assistance is there when your vehicle gets a flat tyre, breaks down or when you need free advice.

There are several audible, tactile, visual, and performance warning signs to look out for when your brake pads are worn.  

If you notice one or more of the following signs impacting your brake pads, you shouldn’t hesitate to replace them immediately.

• Squealing, squeaky or high-pitched screeching.  
• Grinding noises (metal-on-metal or severe wear)
• Clicking or rattling sounds

• Vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal or steering wheel.
• Spongy or soft brake pedal.
• Car pulling to one side when braking
• The brake pedal feels hard to press 

• Dashboard Indicator Light turns on 
• Visible thinness of brake pads (less than three millimetres) [2]
• Uneven brake pad wear and tear

• A burning smell 
• Reduced brake responsiveness
• Longer stopping distances.

Here’s how you can conduct a visual inspection of your vehicle’s brake pads:

1. Position your vehicle so that it is on ground level and the parking brake is engaged.
2. Look through the wheel spokes to find the brake pads (near the brake rotor). 
3. Check if the brake pads are less than three millimetres, and if this is the case, then consider having your brakes inspected professionally. [2] 
4. Check for visual wear indicators, such as uneven brake pads or thin brake pads.
5. If you’re unsure of the condition of your brake pads, then it’s recommended that you get a professional inspection from a mechanic. 

A new brake pad should be about 10 to 12 millimetres thick [2]. The disc thickness is measured in at least six equally spaced positions around and across the brake pad contact area.

According to the Department of Transport and Main Roads, you must replace your brake pads per Australian Standard 3617 (Parameters for the machining and reconditioning of drum brakes and discs. [3]

The condition of each brake disc will be inspected in line with the following standards:

• If there is any cracking on the brake disc. [3]
• If there isn't enough material available to successfully resurface a brake disc according to the manufacturer's requirements. [3]
• If the manufacturer says that a certain disc rotor may not be resurfaced. [3]
• If the brake disc measures on or below the minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer. [3]
• If the brake disc is remeasured and any of the parameters are outside the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. [3]If there are any flaws, such as excessive scoring or undercutting after resurfacing the brake disc. [3]
• If there are any heated or hardened hotspots after resurfacing the brake disc. [3]

While you can replace your brake pads, it’s strongly recommended that you engage in getting a professional service from a mechanic for your own safety.

Getting a mechanic to replace your brake pads will not only ensure your safety but also the longevity of your braking system.