Brake pad wear can be checked mainly in two ways: self‑inspection by the car owner and professional inspection at a repair shop. Both methods are simple and easy to judge:
I. Checks the owner can perform without removing the wheels
Visual inspection through the wheel gapMost aluminum alloy wheels allow direct viewing of the brake pads:
New pad friction layer: ≈ 14 mm
Friction layer below 7 mm: replacement recommended as soon as possible
Friction layer only 2–3 mm: immediate replacement required
Listen for the warning soundBrake pads are equipped with a metal warning tab. When worn to the limit, they produce:A continuous squealing / metal‑to‑metal grinding sound.This noise means the pads have reached their wear limit.
Check the dashboard warning lightMid‑to‑high‑end models have a brake pad wear indicator light. If the light is on, replacement is needed.
Judging by brake feelThese symptoms usually indicate severe wear:
Soft brake pedal with increased travel
Significantly longer braking distance
Body vibration or pulling to one side during braking
