The lifespan depends on the following factors:

• Production technology and materials. Ceramic parts usually serve longer than the organic ones.
• Vehicle weight. The parts installed on compact cars retain their operability significantly longer than those on heavy SUVs.
• Driver’s skills and style. Lack of engine braking skill and frequent use of the brake pedal cause premature wear of the parts. In particular, sporty driving style can reduce their lifespan by up to 50%.
• Condition of the brake discs. Uneven wear, grooves, and corrosion spots on their surface have a negative effect on the service life of the pads.
• Mounting side. Components on the front axle are capable of functioning properly for 25,000–40,000 kilometres, of the rear axle up to 60,000 kilometres.

According to international standards, the components on an axle should be replaced together, and be not only of the same brand but of the same batch. This means that you should purchase them as a set. As a rule, it contains 4 parts – 2 for each wheel of an axle.

The need for replacement is indicated by mechanical or electronic wear indicators. Triggering of the first type comes with a squealing noise, the second with a dashboard warning light going on. Moreover, you should check the condition of the components when one of the following occurs:

• impaired braking efficiency;
• brake fluid level dropped;
• steering wheel wobbles at low speed;
• dust and metal shavings appear on the mechanism’s elements.

The most accurate indicator of the wear degree is the thickness of the friction lining. It can be measured using a vernier caliper and compared to the value specified in the technical documentation provided by the car manufacturer.

The replacement procedure is rather simple and doesn’t require professional training or specialised tools. Read the car service manual carefully and watch video tutorials from experienced car mechanics. In most cases the procedure consists of the following steps:

1. Open the bonnet and unscrew the brake fluid tank cap.
2. Lift the car.
3. Remove the wheel.
4. Unscrew the fasteners of the brake caliper.
5. Pull the pads away from the disc.
6. Remove the brake caliper.
7. Replace the parts in pairs.
8. Press in the brake caliper piston.
9. Re-assemble in the reverse order.
10. Bleed the system by pressing the brake pedal a few times.

Recently installed parts can produce slight noise, if abrasion of their factory coating hasn’t ended yet. Moreover, squealing and rattling sounds can be caused by:

• incorrect installation;
• poor quality of the friction compound;
• incompatibility of the disc and pad materials;
• water, mud, sand, or stones getting on the discs;
• overheating of the brakes;
• lack of lubricant on the brake caliper guide pins.