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Brake Pad Lifespan and Maintenance with Autel Scanner Guide

Have you ever wondered how long brake pads last? Understanding your vehicle's braking system and performing regular brake maintenance is essential to keep you and your passengers safe on the road. Using a professional tool like the Autel scanner can make a huge difference in accurately assessing your brake system and extending brake life.

What Are Brake Pads?

Brake pads are critical components of your vehicle's braking system. These metal plates coated with friction material press against the brake rotors when you apply the brakes. This friction slows or stops the vehicle.

Brake pads are typically made from ceramic, metallic composites, or organic materials. Proper brake maintenance helps prolong the brake pad lifespan and reduces the frequency of costly replacements.

Brake pads are components in a vehicle’s braking system.

Brake pads are components in a vehicle’s braking system

How Long Do Brake Pads Last?

There is no exact number for brake pad lifespan, as it depends on factors such as driving habits, road conditions, vehicle load, and the brake pad materials. Its's generally recommended to perform a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (about 20,000 kilometers).

City driving with frequent stopping, heavy braking, or carrying heavy loads can accelerate brake pad wear. That's why regular brake maintenance and inspections are key to safety and saving money.

One of the best ways to monitor your brake system is by using an Autel scanner. These tools provide real-time diagnostics and are especially useful for detecting ABS faults. With ABS diagnostics via an Autel scanner, you can know exactly how long your brake pads will last and when to schedule maintenance.

The car's brake pads are badly worn.

The car's brake pads are badly worn.

4 Tips to Extend Brake Pad Life

1. Avoid Hard Braking

Sudden and aggressive braking significantly shortens brake pad life. Practice smooth, gradual braking and keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

2. Don't Overload Your Vehicle

Excess weight puts extra stress on the braking system, causing faster pad wear. Carry only essential items, especially on long or hilly drives.

3. Regularly Check Brake Fluid

Brake fluid quality and level are crucial to proper braking. Old or low brake fluid can affect braking performance and increase brake pad wear. Use your Autel scanner to check brake fluid condition and reset service reminders.

4. Watch for Warning Signs

Squealing noises, vibration, or a soft brake pedal often indicate worn brake pads. With Autel scanner's ABS diagnostics, you can quickly detect these issues before they worsen.

Check the brake fluid regularly.

Check the brake fluid regularly.

How to Use an Autel Scanner for Brake Inspection

While visual inspection of brake pads is helpful, modern cars rely heavily on electronic sensors and modules. The Autel scanner reads these systems for a thorough brake inspection:

  • Reads brake and ABS fault codes
  • Monitors live data such as wheel speed sensors and brake pressure
  • Tests ABS and electronic parking brake (EPB) functions
  • Resets brake pad wear indicators after replacements
  • Activates electronic calipers for brake pad replacement on compatible vehicles

Models like the Autel MK900BT, MaxiSys Ultra S2, and others provide professional-grade diagnostics to keep your brakes in top condition.

Check brake fluid level and parking brake with an Autel scanner.

Check brake fluid level and parking brake with an Autel scanner.

Professional Brake Inspection Overview

At a mechanic's shop, a full brake inspection includes:

  • Measuring brake pad thickness to ensure safety standards
  • Checking brake rotors for cracks, warping, or scoring
  • Inspecting hydraulic components and brake fluid condition
  • Diagnosing noise and vibration issues with tools like Autel scanners

Final Thoughts

Though small, brake pads are vital for your vehicle's safety. Regular brake maintenance, attentive driving habits, and using an Autel scanner for early diagnostics can significantly extend brake life and ensure reliable braking every time.

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