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Brake pads and rotors are wear-and-tear components that must be replaced periodically for safe and efficient braking. Knowing the signs and timelines for replacement helps you avoid brake failure and expensive damage (Future Auto Service, 2024).
When to Replace Brake Pads?
When to Replace Brake Pads?
Recommended Replacement Interval
Recommended Replacement Interval
Every 40,000 to 70,000 km, depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and pad material.
Check your owner’s manual or service booklet for vehicle-specific recommendations.
Signs You Need New Brake Pads
Signs You Need New Brake Pads
Squealing or screeching when braking (usually from wear indicators)
Squealing or screeching when braking (usually from wear indicators)
Grinding noise (metal-to-metal contact — urgent)
Grinding noise (metal-to-metal contact — urgent)
Longer stopping distance
Longer stopping distance
Brake warning light on the dashboard (if equipped)
Brake warning light on the dashboard (if equipped)
Less than 3mm of pad thickness (visible through wheel or upon removal)
Less than 3mm of pad thickness (visible through wheel or upon removal)
Vehicle pulls to one side when braking
Vehicle pulls to one side when braking
When to Replace Brake Rotors?
When to Replace Brake Rotors?
Recommended Replacement Interval
Recommended Replacement Interval
Typically every 80,000 to 120,000 km
Or every second brake pad change, but this depends on the condition of the rotors and your driving style
Signs You Need New Rotors
Signs You Need New Rotors
Vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal when stopping
Grooves, scoring, or deep rust on the rotor surface
Blue discoloration, indicating overheating
Thinning beyond minimum thickness (measurable with a caliper or micrometer)
Grinding or squealing, even with new pads (may be warped or damaged rotors)
Additional Tips
Additional Tips
Always replace brake pads in pairs (front or rear), never just one side.
If rotors are still within spec but show minor wear, they can sometimes be resurfaced instead of replaced—consult a mechanic.
Driving habits matter: Aggressive driving, frequent hard braking, and city traffic can wear out pads and rotors faster.
Real-World Example
Real-World Example
A driver ignored squealing brakes for 2 months. When finally inspected, the pads were gone and the rotors were severely scored. Instead of just ₱3,000 for new pads, the total repair cost jumped to ₱10,000 due to rotor replacement.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
Replace brake pads when they’re thin, noisy, or causing longer stops.
Replace rotors if they’re worn, warped, or below minimum thickness.
Ignoring these signs can compromise your safety and increase repair costs.
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References
References
AutoZone. (n.d.). How Long Do Brake Rotors Last?. Retrieved from https://www.autozone.com/diy/brakes/how-long-do-brake-rotors-last
Car and Driver. (2025, January 30). When to Replace Your Car's Brake Pads. Retrieved from https://www.caranddriver.com/features/a26407325/when-replace-brake-pads/
Davenport Motor Company. (2024, March 28). When To Change Brake Rotors & What Happens If You Don't. Retrieved from https://www.davenportmotorco.com/blog/when-to-change-brake-rotors-what-happens-if-you-don-t
Future Auto Service. (2024, April 28). What Happens If You Don't Change The Brake Pads. Retrieved from https://futureautoservice.net/blog/what-happens-if-you-don-t-change-the-brake-pads
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