There are several key indicators that a vehicle’s brake pads may need to be replaced, including (but not limited to) the brake indicator symbol lighting up on the instrument panel; audio cues such as your brakes sounding different than normal when braking in normal conditions; a change in the way your vehicle feels when it’s braking; and visual cues such as the thickness of the brake pad (anything 5mm or thinner will need to be replaced!).

If you’re a mechanic (or a distributor working with mechanics), you may find yourself being asked a heap of questions relating to brake pad replacements. Within this guide, we will show you the standard steps to take when replacing brake pads and how to do so safely. While there may be some variation for different vehicle types and models, the basic steps will tend to be extremely similar.



Step 1: Observation & securing the vehicle

Take a look at the existing brake discs and brake pads to see what needs to be replaced and look for any damage that may indicate additional work is required. Any deep scratches, dents, or breakage may indicate the work required extends beyond just replacing the brake pads.

As it’s best practice to replace brake pads and brake discs at the same time, we will be walking you through both today.

Ensure the vehicle is parked with lots of space around it (and away from other vehicles that may be getting work done at the same time). Double-check that the parking brake / emergency brake / hand brake is engaged (note: some vehicles may use an “auto hold” feature – this is not the same as a parking brake and should not be used during vehicle maintenance).

As a secondary level of safety, it’s also a good idea to put blocks in front of and behind the rear wheels to prevent any movement while working on the vehicle (or the front wheels if you’re working on the rear wheels).

Step 2: Removing the wheels

In order to remove a car’s wheels, you will need the vehicle’s lug nut key. Keys can vary in shape and size, so if the owner does not have their lug nut key, you may need to use a universal lug nut key kit to find the correct size.

Loosen the lug nuts while the car is still on the ground to ensure they can all be easily removed without additional assistance and then proceed to jack up the car and lift the side you’ll be working on to gain better access to the wheels. Remove all lug nuts and keep them safe to one side.

Pull the wheel off and place it to one side (you can place it under the vehicle).

Step 3: Removing and replacing the brake disc and brake pads

As you’ll see in the video above, this car has some rust around the brake disc and calliper. This is normal, and older vehicles will be more susceptible to rust due to wear over time. If there is a lot of rust, you may need to leave some cleaning oil overnight to help remove the rust and make it easier to see what you’re working with (especially if the brake disc is unable to come off).

At this stage, it may be helpful to use the steering wheel to move the mechanism in a way that provides a better view (left/right depending on which side of the car you’re working on).

Unbolt the calliper and lift up to reveal and remove the old brake pads. Then, while the calliper is still in the open position, unbolt any remaining screws and remove the calliper. You’ll notice it’s attached to the brake line – ensure this isn’t strained when you lie the calliper down.

You’ll now be able to remove the calliper bracket by loosening the bolts and then you’ll be able to pull the brake disc off to replace it. Replace the brake disc, brake pads, and reattach the calliper bracket and calliper and secure as before.

You may need to clean off any rust between steps to ensure pieces fit together nicely – use cleaner or a metal brush. Some lubrication will also be required to prevent mental-on-metal contact as this can cause excess friction and noise, e.g. on the back of the brake pad and on the parts where the brake pads sit in the callipers – just take care to ensure no lubricant makes its way onto the brake pad surface that comes in contact with the brake disc.

Step 4: Resecuring the wheels and testing the brakes

Once the calliper is secured back in place, you can go ahead and put the wheels back on. Tighten the lug nuts partially to start, lower the car so the wheels are in contact with the ground, and finish tightening the lug nuts fully before lowering the car completely down and removing the jacks.

Once the process is complete for all brake pads, it’s time to test the brakes!

Get inside the vehicle and use the brake a few times while the car is stationary. The brake will feel soft the first few pushes, but you should feel the pressure under your foot changing. Once it feels “normal” slowly get the vehicle moving and use the brakes to test the system fully.

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Brake pads are an integral – but often overlooked – component of a vehicle’s braking system as many people can go years without ever needing to get their brake pads replaced or may not even know what brake pads are and what they do. We will explore these questions in more detail below:

Brake Pads’ Composition And Structure

Brake pads are generally composed of steel plates, adhesive heat insulation layers, and friction blocks. The steel plates must be painted to prevent rust – at Frontech, we use an SMT-4 furnace temperature tracker is used to detect the temperature distribution during the coating process to ensure quality. The heat insulation layer is composed of materials that help prevent the transfer of heat and to provide insulation. And lastly, as the name suggests, the friction block is composed of friction materials that increase the levels of friction on contact, as well as adhesive – the friction block sits on the brake disc or brake drum to generate friction during braking and more quickly decelerate the vehicle. However, due to the high levels of friction – especially when braking harshly – the friction block will gradually become worn out and require replacement.

Classification of Brake Pads

Automobile brake pads are divided into types:

●brake pads for disc brakes

●brake shoes for drum brakes

●brake pads for large trucks

Brake pads can also be divided further into the following categories based on the construction materials:

●asbestos brake pads (basically eliminated)

●semi-metal brake pads

●less metal brake pads

●ceramic brake pads

How Do Brake Pads Operate?

The basic working principle of the brake is mainly controlled by friction. The friction between the brake pads and the brake discs (drums) and the tires on the ground is used to convert the kinetic energy of the vehicle into frictional heat energy to stop the car. A good and efficient brake system must provide stable, sufficient, and controllable braking force, and have good hydraulic transmission and heat dissipation capabilities to ensure that the force exerted by the driver using the brake pedal can be fully and effectively transmitted to the master cylinder and each sub-cylinder – as well as avoiding hydraulic failure and brake degradation caused by high heat.

When To Replace Brake Pads

The replacement cycle of brake pads often depends on specific conditions such as the operating conditions of the vehicle, the type of the vehicle, the weight of the vehicle, and the type of brake pads it has.

For example, it is often the case in real life that some types of brake pads can be used for a range of 50,000 – 60,000 kilometres (roughly 31,000 – 37,300 miles) before needing to be replaced, yet on other vehicles, it can be as low as 25,000 kilometres (roughly 15,500 miles)! The frequency of vehicle use, driving technique, and road surface are also important factors to consider.

Generally speaking, the replacement cycle of brake pads of a car that has been driving on urban roads for a long time is significantly shorter than that of a vehicle that has been driving on a highway for a long time. Driving on flat roads is better, and trucks have a shorter replacement cycle than light vehicles. Therefore, there is no hard-set “rule” that can tell how long your brake pads can or should be used – so it’s important to keep an eye out for any indications of a fault and get your brake pads checked regularly.

Four Quick Methods To Determine If Brake Pads Need To Be Replaced

(For full details see our previous post here.)

1. Look at the thickness of the brake pad – generally speaking, brake pads should be around 1.5cm (15mm) thick. Anything less than 0.5cm (5mm) is too worn and may indicate the brake pad needs to be replaced soon.

2. Note any changes to the feel of your brakes – when driving, you’ll become accustomed to the feel of your vehicle’s brakes, so any noticeable changes from the norm may indicate wear and tear. If braking feels strenuous or too soft/spongy, you should get your brakes checked urgently by a qualified mechanic.

3. Listen out for any unusual sounds – as with the feel of your brakes, every vehicle will have a distinct sound to the brakes and it shouldn’t be high-pitched or loud as this may indicate the brake pads are worn and what you’re hearing is iron rubbing directly on iron.

4. Keep an eye out for your brake warning light on the dashboard – if you see your warning light illuminating, this is your vehicle’s sensors alerting you to a fault with the braking system.

Welcome to our article on the topic of brake pad width. If you're a car enthusiast, a mechanic, or simply someone interested in learning more about car maintenance, this is the perfect read for you. In this article, we will delve into the importance of brake pad width and how it relates to your vehicle's performance and safety. Whether you're wondering how to choose the right brake pads for your car or simply interested in understanding more about this often overlooked component, we've got you covered. So, let's explore the world of brake pad width and its significance together.
Understanding the Importance of Proper Brake Pad Width

When it comes to maintaining and servicing your vehicle, few components are as crucial as the braking system. In order to ensure the safety and efficiency of your vehicle's braking mechanism, it is important to pay close attention to the width of the brake pads. The width of the brake pads directly affects the amount of surface area that comes into contact with the rotor, which in turn impacts the stopping power and overall performance of the braking system. In this article, we will delve into the topic of brake pad width, exploring its significance and providing guidance on how wide your brake pads should be for optimal performance.

The Relationship Between Brake Pad Width and Braking Performance

The braking performance of a vehicle is highly dependent on the width of the brake pads. Essentially, wider brake pads offer a larger surface area for the friction material to come into contact with the rotor, resulting in increased stopping power and more efficient heat dissipation. On the other hand, narrower brake pads may not provide sufficient contact with the rotor, compromising the vehicle's ability to come to a complete stop, especially in emergency situations. It is therefore essential to ensure that the brake pads on your vehicle are of an appropriate width to maintain optimal braking performance.

Determining the Right Brake Pad Width for Your Vehicle

In order to determine the correct width for your vehicle's brake pads, it is important to consult the manufacturer's specifications and recommendations. Different vehicle models and types may require brake pads of varying widths, and it is essential to adhere to these guidelines to ensure proper fitment and functionality. Additionally, consulting with a qualified mechanic or automotive professional can provide valuable insight into the appropriate brake pad width for your specific vehicle, taking into account factors such as vehicle weight, driving habits, and intended use.

Frontech Auto Parts: High-Quality Brake Pads for Optimal Performance

Frontech Auto Parts is a leading manufacturer of automotive brake components, including high-quality brake pads designed to meet the specific needs of various vehicle models. Our brake pads are engineered to precise specifications, including the optimal width for each application, ensuring that they provide reliable and consistent braking performance. With a focus on quality and durability, Frontech brake pads are an excellent choice for vehicle owners who prioritize safety and reliability.

Final Thoughts on Brake Pad Width

In conclusion, the width of the brake pads plays a critical role in the performance and safety of a vehicle's braking system. By ensuring that the brake pads are of an appropriate width for your vehicle, you can maintain optimal stopping power and responsiveness, as well as prolong the life of the braking components. When in doubt, always consult with a professional mechanic or refer to the manufacturer's recommendations to determine the right brake pad width for your vehicle. With high-quality brake pads from Frontech Auto Parts, you can rest assured that your vehicle's braking system is equipped to deliver reliable and effective performance.

ConclusionIn conclusion, the width of brake pads is an important factor to consider when it comes to the stopping power of your vehicle. The size of the brake pad should be matched to the size of the rotor for optimal performance. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer to how wide brake pads should be, it is important to consult with a professional to ensure you are using the right size for your specific vehicle. Remember, properly sized brake pads are essential for safety and the overall performance of your car. So, take the time to do your research and make sure you are using the right width for your brake pads. Your safety on the road depends on it!

Are you in the market for new brake pads and feeling overwhelmed by the options available? Look no further! In this article, we will be comparing different ceramic brake pad brands to help you determine which one is the best fit for your vehicle. Whether you're a performance enthusiast or simply looking for reliability, we've got you covered. Read on to find out which ceramic brake pad brand comes out on top.
Comparing Ceramic Brake Pad Brands: Which Is Best?

When it comes to maintaining your vehicle, one of the most important components to consider is the brake pads. They play a crucial role in ensuring your safety on the road, so it's essential to invest in a quality set. With so many brands and options available, it can be overwhelming to determine which ceramic brake pad brand is the best for your vehicle. In this article, we'll compare various brands and discuss what sets them apart so that you can make an informed decision.

The Benefits of Ceramic Brake Pads

Before delving into the various brands, it's important to understand the benefits of ceramic brake pads. Unlike traditional metallic brake pads, ceramic pads are constructed from a dense compound that offers several advantages. One of the most significant benefits is their ability to provide consistent braking performance, reduce brake dust, and minimize noise. Additionally, ceramic brake pads are known for their durability and ability to handle high temperatures, making them an ideal choice for performance vehicles.

Frontech: A Closer Look

Frontech is a well-known brand in the automotive industry, specializing in high-quality auto parts, including ceramic brake pads. The company has built a reputation for producing reliable and long-lasting products that cater to the needs of various vehicle makes and models. Whether you drive a compact car or a heavy-duty truck, Frontech has a range of ceramic brake pads designed to deliver exceptional stopping power and longevity.

Performance and Longevity

When comparing ceramic brake pad brands, performance and longevity are two critical factors to consider. Frontech's ceramic brake pads are engineered to provide consistent braking performance, ensuring a smooth and responsive driving experience. The use of advanced materials and manufacturing techniques allows Frontech brake pads to withstand high temperatures and heavy use, making them an excellent choice for drivers who demand reliability and durability from their brakes.

Compatibility and Fit

Another essential aspect to consider when evaluating ceramic brake pad brands is compatibility and fit. Frontech understands the importance of precise fitment, which is why their brake pads are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications. This ensures a seamless installation process and optimal performance, ultimately enhancing the safety and reliability of your vehicle's braking system. Whether you drive a domestic or import vehicle, Frontech offers a wide range of ceramic brake pads that are engineered to fit various applications.

Noise and Dust Reduction

In addition to performance and fitment, noise and dust reduction are crucial considerations when selecting ceramic brake pads. Frontech's ceramic brake pads are formulated to minimize noise and vibration, providing a quieter and more comfortable driving experience. Furthermore, their low-dust formulation helps keep your wheels clean and prolong the life of your vehicle's braking components. By choosing Frontech ceramic brake pads, you can enjoy the benefits of superior braking performance without the drawbacks of excessive noise and dust.

The Verdict: Which Is the Best Ceramic Brake Pad Brand?

After comparing various ceramic brake pad brands, it's evident that Frontech stands out as a top contender in the market. With a focus on performance, longevity, compatibility, and noise reduction, Frontech's ceramic brake pads offer a compelling combination of features that cater to the diverse needs of drivers. Whether you prioritize safety, reliability, or overall driving comfort, Frontech's ceramic brake pads are a reliable choice that can enhance the performance of your vehicle's braking system. Consider investing in Frontech ceramic brake pads to experience the benefits of advanced braking technology and uncompromising quality.

In conclusion, choosing the best ceramic brake pad brand involves considering various factors such as performance, longevity, compatibility, and noise reduction. Frontech's ceramic brake pads excel in these areas, making them a standout choice for drivers who seek high-quality and reliable brake components. By selecting Frontech, you can maximize the safety, performance, and comfort of your vehicle's braking system, ultimately enhancing your driving experience.

ConclusionIn conclusion, when it comes to comparing ceramic brake pad brands, it’s clear that there are a variety of options to choose from. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits, making it difficult to determine which is the absolute best. However, by considering factors such as price, performance, and durability, consumers can make an informed decision about which brand is best suited for their specific needs. Whether it’s the longevity of Akebono, the high-performance of Power Stop, or the affordability of Wagner, there’s a ceramic brake pad brand out there for everyone. Ultimately, the best way to determine which brand is best is to do diligent research and even consult with a professional to ensure that you’re making the right choice for your vehicle. Happy braking!