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Brake pad wear indicator

Datasheet
Spare partBrake pad and warning contacts
KnowThe role and function - electronic or acoustic, depending on the brake system

Important safety note

Technical information and practical tips have been compiled by HELLA in order to provide professional support to vehicle workshops in their day-to-day work. The information provided on this website is intended for use by suitably qualified personnel only.

The Role and Function of Brake Wear Indicators

Task

The wear indicator is a monitoring device used to inform the driver promptly when the brake pad has reached its minimum thickness/wear limit. For disc brake pads, this is usually two millimeters. The wear indicator may be electronic or acoustic, depending on the brake system.

Acoustic wear indicator

The acoustic wear indicator is purely mechanical, and takes the form of a scratch plate (A) mounted on the base plate of the brake pad. When the wear limit is reached, the brake disc comes into contact with the scratch plate when the brake is operated. The combination of this contact and the rotation of the brake disc generates an unpleasant screeching sound.

Electronic wear indicator

In its simplest form, an electronic wear indicator comprises a wear indicator in the brake pad, a circuit and a warning display on the dashboard. When the wear limit on the brake pad is reached, contact is made with the warning contact (B) embedded in the brake pad. This completes the circuit, causing the warning device to light up. Either 2 or 4 warning contacts may be installed, depending on the design of the brake system.

Repair note

The electrical wear contacts must always be replaced when replacing the brake pads!
When performing diagnostics or repairs, please observe the vehicle-specific information provided by the vehicle and brake manufacturers.

Reprinting, distribution, reproduction, exploitation in any form or disclosure of the contents of this document, even in part, is prohibited without our express, written approval; indication of the document source is also required. The schematic illustrations, pictures and descriptions serve only for the purposes of explanation and representation of the instructions and cannot be used as a basis for installation or assembly work. All rights reserved.

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