The brake system of a car is the most important safety element of a vehicle. And it includes the brake pads, which can be of different types and must be changed periodically.
The brake pads They are an essential element in the operation of the brake system, since they are responsible for generating friction to reduce speed or even stop the vehicle completely.
Regardless of the type of brakes that our car uses, the pads will rub against the disc or the drum so that the speed of rotation of the wheels is reduced. This, of course, makes the pills wear out and lose effectiveness over time. To avoid this, it is important to make good use and replace the pads when necessary.
In cars with a front engine the front pads usually last about 60,000 kilometers
Otherwise, performance and safety will be compromised, as the car will lose braking ability and the distance needed to stop it will increase. Not only that, it can also be more expensive not to change them on time, because when the pads wear out excessively they begin to scratch the discs and these must also be replaced.
How to choose the right brake pads for your car
There are different brake pads on the market, so choosing them properly is important. But before doing so, it is important to know the types of brake pads that we can find on the market:
- semi-metallic: they are made with a combination of metals in a proportion of between 30 and 60%. Generally, iron powder, copper, graphite and steel wool are used. It is a particularly durable pad and allows efficient heat dissipation, being generally used in high-performance vehicles.
- organic: These pads use fiberglass, rubber, kevlar and carbon as main materials. They work in most conditions, but keep in mind that they are not suitable for highly demanding driving. On the contrary, they are ideal for smoother and more routine use, since they wear faster and generate more brake dust.
- low in metal: the composition of this type of pill is similar to the organic ones, but with between 10% and 30% metallic components. Thanks to that they provide better braking and heat transfer, although in return they can cause a little more noise.
- ceramics– Made with ceramic fibers, bonding agents and non-ferrous materials, they are quieter and cleaner, but also more expensive.
Knowing what the qualities of each type of pad are, it is easier to determine the type of product you want for your car. But, if you are not an expert in mechanics, it is best to let yourself be advised by professionals.
How to change brake pads yourself
The frequency with which it is necessary to replace the brake pads varies greatly depending on the type of vehicle and pad you have, as well as the way you drive.
In any case, and as a guideline, in cars with a front engine the front pads usually last about 60,000 kilometers and the rear ones can even last twice as long, 120,000 kilometers.
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If you are not a particularly handy person or an expert in mechanics, the best thing you can do is leave the replacement of the pads in the hands of a professional.
Regardless of that, worn brake pads always warn of their wear with symptoms like these:
- wear sensor: modern cars have it. A warning light on the dashboard warns you of its wear.
- Noise: A high-pitched screeching noise occurs because the ferode has worn down and the metal begins to rub against the disc.
- pedal feel: Brake pedal travel becomes longer and softer than normal.
- Brake fluid: lowers the level as the pills are spent.
- less effective braking: The braking distance is lengthened.
If you are not a particularly handy or knowledgeable person in mechanics, the best thing you can do is stop replacing the pads. in the hands of a professional. Anyway, we tell you how to change the brake pads yourself:
- remove the wheel to access the brakes.
- loosen up the caliper bolts to get her out.
- Apply brake grease to the back of the new pad and make sure that there is no lubricant in the front of it or on the disk.
- put in the new pill pressure and hook it to the upper metal sheet.
- Compress and adjust the piston brake to fit the new pad perfectly. Screw it back on.
- Put the wheel back and repeat the operation with the rest of the brake pads.
- Once the pad replacement is complete, you must press the brake pedal all the way down and progressively. You will have to repeat this several times and it will serve to bring the piston closer to the pill and leave it well seated.
- Drive carefully and smoothly during the first 100 kilometers, allowing the material to settle and begin to perform at its best after a break-in period. Also, this will make them last longer.
Remember, the most important thing is to be proactive and maintain the brakes, including the pads, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. And never forget to pay attention to possible symptoms that indicate premature wear.
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