When should brake discs and brake pads be replaced?

Written by Marcus Hvitfeldt · Updated 22 April 2026 · ⏱ 5 min read

The brakes are one of the most important safety components on your car. Yet it's something many people only think about once problems occur. But if you know the signs of wear and react in time, you can increase safety and often save money in the long run.

In this guide we go through when brake discs and pads typically need replacing, and what to watch for if the car starts braking differently than normal.

What's the difference between brake discs and brake pads?

The brake system consists of, among other things, two wear parts that work together every time you brake:

• Brake pads press against the disc and create the friction that makes the car brake
• Brake discs rotate with the wheel and receive the pressure from the pads

Brake pads wear faster than the discs, because they're designed specifically to wear down. That's why it's also completely normal for pads to need replacing more often.

How long do brakes last?

Lifespan varies depending on the car type, driving pattern, and driving style, but as a rule of thumb:

• Brake pads: roughly 30,000 to 70,000 km
• Brake discs: roughly 70,000 to 120,000 km

If you do a lot of city driving with frequent braking, the brakes will typically wear faster than with calm motorway driving. If you want your brakes checked, we offer brake checks and brake replacement in Rødovre.

Signs that brake pads need replacing

The first signs of wear often come from the pads. You should especially watch for:

• A squealing or grinding sound when braking
• Reduced braking performance
• A warning light on some cars

If you hear a sharp or metallic sound, it can be a sign the pads are very worn. In that situation the car should be checked quickly, so the discs don't also get damaged.

Signs that brake discs are worn

When the discs are worn or warped, you'll often experience other symptoms:

• Vibration in the steering wheel when braking
• Uneven braking
• Visible grooves or an uneven surface on the disc

Worn brake discs don't just affect comfort. They can also compromise the car's stability and safety when you brake hard.

Why it's important to react in time

If you ignore worn brakes, it can quickly develop into a bigger and more expensive problem:

• The brake discs can get damaged
• The repair becomes more expensive
• Braking performance gets worse

What could have been a simple brake pad replacement can end up requiring replacement of both pads and discs. That's why it often pays to react early.

When does it pay to replace both at once?

In some cases it makes good sense to replace both discs and pads at the same time:

• If the discs are already worn or grooved
• If you want to avoid uneven wear on the new pads
• If you want to save on labor costs in the long run

A combined solution isn't always necessary, but it can often be the most economical and durable solution in the long run.

What affects the lifespan of brakes?

Several things affect how quickly your brakes wear:

• Driving pattern, especially city versus motorway
• Driving style and hard braking
• The car's weight
• The quality of the brake components

Calm driving, good distance in traffic, and regular checks can significantly extend the lifespan.

Good advice for taking care of your brakes

• Avoid unnecessarily hard braking
• Keep a better distance in traffic
• Have the brakes checked regularly
• React to sounds, vibrations, and a changed brake feel

Small changes in everyday driving can make a big difference, both for safety and for how long the parts last.