The brake pads will slowly wear down as you drive your vehicle longer. If the brake pads wear down too much, they won’t be able to brake effectively, which makes it unsafe to drive.
In this article, we’ll tell you roughly how much it will cost to replace your brake pads and answer any other questions you may have to give you more peace of mind when driving.
Can I drive with bad brake pads?
Driving with bad brake pads is dangerous and not recommended.
Worn-out brake pads reduce your car’s ability to stop effectively, increasing the risk of accidents.
If the brake pads are severely worn, they can damage other parts of the braking system, like the rotors, leading to costly repairs.
Additionally, driving with bad brake pads can cause longer stopping distances, reduced control during braking, and trigger warning lights on your dashboard.
If you suspect your brake pads are bad, it’s best to have them inspected and replaced as soon as possible for your safety.
How much does it cost to replace brake pads?
The cost of brake pads is $5-$10 per set (4pcs);
The cost of labor is $80-$120 per axle;
So, the total brake pad replacement cost is $85-$130 per axle.
When you buy brake pads, besides the vehicle models, brake pad suppliers will ask you what quality or material you need, this is because the material is different and the price is also different.
As a brake pad manufacturer in China, we have much experience in production and sales. If you buy brake pads from manufacturers directly, you will save a lot of money.
Here we reveal the different types of brake pads with factory prices (sort by quality from highest to lowest):
- For ceramic brake pads: $5- $10 per set
- For low-metallic brake pads: $4-$8 per set
- For semi-metallic brake pads: $4- $7 per set
If you do not know the difference between the three types of brake pads, please check Ceramic vs. Semi-metallic and Low-metallic vs Semi-metallic.
Should I replace all 4 brake pads at once?
Yes, we recommend replacing all four brake pads at once, especially if they are all worn down.
As we all know, cars have a pair (two) of brake pads on the left and right front wheels, and the same goes for the rear wheels.
Replacing them in pairs (front or rear wheel) ensures balanced braking, which is crucial for safety.
However, if only the front or rear pads are worn, you can replace just those, but it’s best to check all pads for wear to avoid uneven braking performance.
Learn How To Check Brake Pads
Is it OK to just replace brake pads?
Yes, it’s okay to just replace the brake pads if the brake disc is still in good condition.
However, it’s important to check the brake disc for any signs of wear, such as grooves, warping, or thinning.
We should replace the damaged brake disc along with the brake pads to ensure braking performance and safety.
Replacing only the brake pads without addressing the worn brake disc can lead to reduced braking efficiency and uneven wear on the new brake pads.
How do I know if brake pads need replacing?
You can tell if your brake pads need replacing by looking out for the following signs:
- Squeaking or Squealing Noises: A high-pitched noise when braking is a common indicator that the brake pads are worn and need replacement.
- Grinding Sound: If you hear a grinding sound, it usually means the brake pads are worn down to the metal, and immediate replacement is necessary to prevent damage to the rotors.
- Thin Brake Pads: Visually inspect the brake pads through the wheel spokes. If the pad thickness is less than 3mm, it’s time to replace them.
- Longer Braking Distance: If your car takes longer to stop than usual, it may be due to worn brake pads.
- Vibration or Pulsation: A vibrating brake pedal can indicate unevenly worn brake pads or issues with the brake disc.
Regularly inspecting your brake pads and paying attention to these signs can help ensure safe braking and prevent further damage to your braking system.
Learn When To Replace Brake Pads
