Restore Brake System Integrity For Better Performance
And Safer Driving

The rate at which the brake linings wear out depends on the frequency of use, how hard the brakes are being applied, the temperature of the linings and the wear characteristics of the friction material itself. Consequently, a set of brake linings on one vehicle might last only 25,000 to 30,000 miles, when on a different vehicle they might go 50,000 or 60,000 miles.

As a rule, most brake pads and shoes should be replaced when the thickness of the friction material is worn down to minimum specifications (typically less than 1/8" of lining thickness) or when the surface of the pads or shoes is worn down flush with the tops of the rivet heads (riveted linings). Some brake pads have built-in wear indicators that generate a metallic scraping noise when the pads are worn out and need to be replaced.

SELLING THE BRAKE JOB
So, the linings are worn and need to be replaced. Now what? Brake linings and other parts that are obviously worn out, broken or leaking should always be replaced. But what about parts that are marginal or appear to be OK? For example, should calipers or wheel cylinders always be rebuilt or replaced if they're not leaking, or should you leave them alone? What about replacing the master cylinder in a high-mileage vehicle? Should you always flush the brake system and refill it with fresh fluid?

Some people might think you're tryi...