When to replace brake pads: km, signs and squeaks

Short answer: most brake pads last roughly 30,000–70,000 km. City driving with lots of stops wears them faster; highway driving wears them slower. Replace them when the friction material is down to about 3 mm, or sooner if you hear grinding.

Warning signs

• A high-pitched squeal when braking (the wear indicator)
• A grinding or metal-on-metal sound
• The car pulls to one side when braking
• A longer stopping distance or a soft pedal
• A brake pad warning light on the dashboard

How to check pad thickness

Look through the wheel spokes at the brake caliper: the pad is the block pressed against the disc. New pads are about 10–12 mm thick. Around 3 mm it's time to replace them. When in doubt, ask for a check at your next oil change.

Track pad wear by distance

Write down the odometer when the pads were replaced and the interval your mechanic suggests. Then you know roughly how many km are left instead of waiting for the squeal.

How Wearline handles it

Wearline adds brake pads with a 30,000 km / 24-month interval that you can change. Log your odometer now and then and the wear bar shows the distance left; when you replace the pads, pick only "Brake pads" in the service record and only that item resets. Intervals are general guidance — follow your owner's manual.

Is a squeak always a sign of worn pads?

Not always. Many pads have a small metal wear indicator that squeals when the pad is thin, but dust, moisture or new pads can also squeak briefly. A constant high squeal or a grinding sound needs a check soon.

Should I replace front and rear pads together?

Not necessarily. Front pads usually wear faster because they do most of the braking. Pads are replaced in pairs on the same axle.

Does brake fluid need changing too?

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, so many manufacturers suggest changing it every 2–3 years regardless of mileage. Check your owner's manual.