Brake Pads

Brake pads are the replaceable friction blocks that press against the brake disc to slow the wheel. They are a wear item and the most frequently replaced braking component, worn down over the life of the vehicle.

What it does

The calliper squeezes a pair of pads against each face of the spinning disc. Friction converts the vehicle’s momentum into heat, which the disc then sheds into the airflow.

Signs a set of brake pads is failing

A high-pitched squeal that stops when you brake, from the wear indicator
A grinding or metallic scraping sound, which means the friction material is gone
Longer stopping distances or a pedal that needs more effort
Visible friction material thinner than about 3mm through the wheel

When to replace them

Typically 30,000 to 50,000 km on the front axle, but towing, hills and heavy city traffic shorten that substantially. Judge on measured thickness rather than distance.

What to confirm before ordering

Have these ready and the counter can usually confirm the part in under a minute.

Which calliper the vehicle has, from the casting mark on the body
Disc diameter, measured rather than assumed
Whether the vehicle has a wear sensor, and which side it runs on
Whether you need the fitting kit of shims and clips

Brake Pads by vehicle

Pick your vehicle for the years and engines covered, and what is specific to that application.

Brake Pads questions

How long do brake pads last?

Front pads commonly last 30,000 to 50,000 km in mixed driving. Rear pads usually last considerably longer. Load, terrain and driving style matter more than the number, so measure the remaining friction material rather than working to a fixed interval.

Should brake pads be replaced in pairs?

Always across the axle, never one wheel. Uneven friction between left and right will pull the vehicle under braking, which is a safety problem rather than a comfort one.

Do new pads need bedding in?

Yes. Use moderate braking for the first few hundred kilometres to transfer an even layer of friction material onto the disc. Hard stops from high speed on fresh pads cause uneven deposits and juddering.