Brake pads - Application, types, repairs and questions

Brake pads front and rear - ATE, Textar, TRW, Delphi, Brembo, Bosch, Ferodo – in our online store for various car brands like Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, VW, Opel, Renault, Peugeot, Lancia, Alfa, Fiat, Toyota, Seat, Honda, Volvo, and more. Brake pads consist of a friction compound shaped and adhered or riveted to a metal support plate. Over time, the friction layer naturally wears down, necessitating periodic replacement. Vehicle manufacturers specify the minimum thickness for the pads. Many vehicles come equipped with wear sensors that warn the driver as the friction layer approaches the minimum thickness. Some pads also feature wear indicators that produce noise when replacement becomes necessary.

Yet, brake pads are just one element of a comprehensive repair. Frequently, issues like noise and uneven wear with the pads don't stem from the pads themselves but from worn-out accompanying parts. Components such as clips, springs, and shims play a crucial role in ensuring the proper, silent, and even functioning of the brake pads. You can order brake pads / placute frana for every car, truck or motorcycle from online shop in Romania. Our offerings include pad sets with accompanying accessories, individual components, and accessory kits, facilitating a thorough job for optimal performance and extended lifespan of your brake pads. In most instances, removing these parts is necessary for pad installation – replacing them with new accessories ensures the best outcomes for the time and money invested.

When most vehicles are designed, the formulation of the brake pad friction compound caters to the "average" driver operating under "normal" driving conditions. However, if you identify as a performance enthusiast, you likely don't fit the average profile. Modifications for aggressive street or track driving, or reinforcing your truck for towing, hauling, or off-road adventures, may reveal that those brake pads are inadequate for your usage patterns. If increased braking power is what you seek, explore our diverse selection of high-performance brake pads.

Original equipment pads generally suffice for leisurely cruising, daily commuting, and city driving but may fall short when it comes to the demands of dynamic driving on winding roads, towing heavy loads, or engaging in high-speed and intense track activities. Such usage generates substantial heat due to the necessary friction required for braking and stopping rapidly moving or heavily loaded vehicles. This heat can lead to overheating and fading of the original pads, resulting in longer stopping distances over time.

We present a selection of performance brake pads meticulously formulated to cater to the demands of driving enthusiasts, race pilots, diligent truck owners, emergency responders, and fleet operators. These pads come in an extensive range of friction compounds crafted by top-tier brake pad manufacturers, ensuring you find the perfect match for your specific needs. These unique formulations encompass ceramics, low-metal content compounds, semi-metallics, and blends that may also incorporate elements like aramid fibers and carbon fibers. Each brake pad set has been engineered to deliver a distinct combination of features. So, whether you seek enhanced braking power for your everyday vehicle, occasional track outings, off-road escapades with a 4x4, or a harmonious blend of braking prowess and durability for a commercial truck, our selection has the ideal pads for your requirements.

What are brake pads?

A brake pad sits between the brake disc and the caliper to reduce the level of friction from metal to metal. Over time, the pads require replacement. When the driver presses the brake, they may hear a squealing sound, or the vehicle may pull to one side. These are signs that the pads are worn out.

When should brake pads be replaced?

Generally, a car's brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometers, while brake discs should be replaced between 45,000 and 100,000 kilometers. However, the exact figure may vary depending on the terrain you drive on, weather conditions, and driving style.

Brake pads should be replaced when they have reached the minimum thickness level or have worn significantly. Vehicle manufacturers provide specifications regarding the minimum thickness of the pads, serving as a clear indication that they need to be changed when approaching this value. You should also replace them if you notice signs of wear, such as squeaking during braking, uneven vehicle pull during braking, or the occurrence of unusual noises.

Another indication that brake pads need to be replaced can be the use of wear sensors. Many modern vehicles have sensors that issue warnings when the pads have reached a significant wear level and require replacement.

It's important to follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and regularly inspect the brake system for signs of wear, taking appropriate measures before issues become critical. Regular preventive maintenance can extend the lifespan of brake pads and ensure an efficient and safe braking system.

Is it easy to replace brakes?

Brake replacement can range from relatively simple to more complex, depending on your level of automotive knowledge, the type of brakes used by your vehicle, and the specific components that need replacement.

For basic brake pad replacement, if you have some mechanical skills and the right tools, it's a task that many car owners can tackle themselves. Here's a general overview of the process:

1. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials: You'll typically need a lug wrench, a jack and jack stands, a C-clamp or brake caliper tool, and replacement brake pads.
2. Lift the Vehicle: Use the jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts, remove the wheel, and set it aside.
4. Access the Brake Caliper: Locate the brake caliper, and depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove some bolts or pins to access the brake pads.
5. Remove Old Brake Pads: Use a C-clamp or brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston, making it easier to remove the old brake pads.
6. Install New Brake Pads: Slide the new brake pads into place. Pay attention to any clips, retainers, or accessories that may need to be transferred from the old pads to the new ones.
7. Reassemble: Put everything back together, ensuring all bolts and pins are tightened properly.
8. Repeat for the Other Side: If you're replacing front brakes, you'll need to repeat the process for the other side. Repeat for rear brakes if necessary.
9. Bleed Brakes (if necessary): If you've opened the brake fluid system, you may need to bleed the brakes to remove air from the brake lines.

It's important to note that this is a general overview, and specific steps may vary depending on your vehicle's make and model. If you're not comfortable with these tasks or if you're dealing with more complex brake system components, such as rotors or calipers, seeking professional help may be advisable.

Always consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions, and when in doubt, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or brake service professional. Brake systems are vital for vehicle safety, so it's crucial to ensure that the work is done correctly.

What happens if I don't change my brakes?

If allowed to wear down before replacement, other components of the brake system, especially the brake discs or drums, may be damaged. In addition to often costly repairs, driving with worn-out or compromised brake pads can lead to unsafe driving conditions.

Do front or rear brakes wear out faster?

One of these systems is the braking system. It is one of the most vital for the vehicle's operation, so you should pay special attention to it through frequent replacement and maintenance. In most vehicles, front brake pads tend to wear out faster than those at the rear because they handle a greater proportion of the braking force, especially in the initial stages of braking. The vehicle's weight shifts to the front during deceleration, exerting higher pressure on the front brakes.

However, the rate of wear can vary based on driving habits, the distribution of the vehicle's weight, and the design of the brake system. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and regularly inspect all brake system components to ensure they are functioning properly.