How to Know What Size Brake Pads You Need?

To ensure your car is stopping quickly, you will need to have the right brake pads for your vehicle. The size of the brake pads is stamped on the inside of each rotor and should be replaced at least once per year, depending on driving conditions and use.

When replacing brakes or rotors, always thoroughly clean all mating surfaces before installation using a degreaser and a brush. 

If you experience any grinding or squealing noises from your brakes while braking, it may be time to replace them sooner than expected.

Always consult with an experienced mechanic to determine if you need new brake pads or rotors installed in addition to replacement fluid levels check & adjustment.

How to Know What Size Brake Pads You Need

How to Know What Size Brake Pads You Need

If you are looking to replace your brake pads, it is important to know the size that corresponds with your vehicle’s wheel. 

To do this, first, remove the old pads by pulling them off of the rotor. Next, find out what size was originally on your brakes and use this as a guide when ordering new pads.

Determine Your Vehicle’s Brake Type

Determine Your Vehicle's Brake Type

Your vehicle may have either disc or drum brakes. If you are not sure which type of brake your car has, look on the side of the road for a sign that will tell you – such as “Drum” or “Disc.”

Calculate How Many Inches of Pad You Need On Each Wheel

To calculate how many inches of pad you need, take your wheel size and divide it by 2 (e.g., if your wheel size is 18″, then you would need 6″ of the pad). 

Calculate How Many Inches of Pad You Need On Each Wheel

This number will be used to order the correct number of pads from our website or in-store location.

Apply The Pads to The Rotors as Close To the Center As Possible

Apply The Pads to The Rotors as Close To the Center As Possible

Applying brake pads correctly is key to preventing any issues down the line – make sure they are applied as close to the center as possible on each rotor so that there is a minimal play between them and no noise/ rattling when braking.

Variants of Rotor Sizes

The size of the rotor on your car’s engine affects how efficiently it can turn and produce power. 

Variants of Rotor Sizes

When the durably made rotors are too small, they may not be able to spin fast enough to create the power you need when you’re driving.

160mm Rotors

160mm rotors are the most common size for both street and track use. These rotors have a more aggressive design that is better suited for high-end performance cars.

180mm Rotors

180mm rotors provide better stopping power and handling than smaller rotor sizes, but they can also be harder to fit into certain vehicles due to their larger dimensions. 

They are commonly found in sports cars and luxury models.

203mm Rotors

203 mm rotor discs offer excellent braking performance while still remaining relatively lightweight and compact compared to other rotor sizes available on the market today. 

They are typically used in high-performance vehicles where weight is of utmost importance.

FAQs

Are Brake Pads the Same Size?

Most brake pads are the same size, but there are some exceptions.

Should You Replace All 4 Brake Pads at Once?

If your brake pads are visibly worn or have excessive rust, it is generally recommended that you replace them all at once.

Why Do Front Brakes Wear Faster?

One reason that front brakes may wear faster is that they handle a lot more weight transfer than rear brakes.

Why Does My Car Click When I Press the Brake?

One of the most common reasons your car clicks when you press the brake is that your pads need to be replaced.

To Recap

It is important to know the right size brake pads for your vehicle in order to avoid any problems or accidents. 

There are a variety of factors you need to take into account when making this decision, such as car make and model, weight, and driving habits. You can consult with a mechanic or purchase an appropriate braking pad kit from a store. 

The best way to determine the correct pad size is by measuring your wheel’s diameter against the recommended specs found on manufacturer websites or in your owner’s manual. 

Never use oversized pads on wheels that do not comply with these specifications.

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