What is the Standard Thickness of Car Disc Brakes? Here is the Answer!

One thing you need to know as a vehicle owner is about the standard thickness of car disc brakes or brake discs. This knowledge is very important to ensure that the vehicle is still safe to use. For more clarity, please refer to the following discussion.

Standard Thickness of Car Disc Brakes

According to several existing sources, there are indeed standard thickness measurements for disc brakes that need to be considered. If the thickness is below the standard, you must replace it immediately to avoid damage.

So, what is the standard thickness? For the standard right disc brake, it is 11.05 mm. Meanwhile, the standard left disc brake is 11.04 mm. So, make sure you pay attention to these standards, especially before driving long distances.

How to Check the Thickness of Car Disc Brakes

After knowing the above standards, you should frequently perform routine checks. Here are some methods that can be used. If the condition is still good, then you do not need to replace it just yet.

1. Measure the thickness of the disc brake

At certain times, you may not realize that the brake pads on the car are worn out or unfit for use. This can later cause the braking function to be less effective in slowing down the car. Therefore, it is important to check this thickness.

You can use a measuring tool to help get the correct measurement. After that, check whether it still meets the standards as mentioned in the previous section. If not, then the brake pads must be replaced immediately.

2. There is a squeaking sound when braking

In addition to measuring, there are other ways you can use to check the standard thickness of car disc brakes, one of which is to check for any squeaking sounds when braking. This sound usually occurs due to pressure entering the disc.

When the disc brake starts to thin, there will be friction between two metals, producing a squeaking sound. However, you do not need to worry because when this happens, there will be no friction between the brake and the disc, but rather a brake wear indicator that produces the sound.

3. Check the brake fluid level

The next method you can use is to check the level of the brake fluid. Brake fluid functions to transmit pressure from the pedal to the brake caliper.

Basically, the nature of brake fluid is a fluid or liquid that will adjust to its container. You can see in the reservoir the volume of brake fluid in the car. For example, when it appears below normal, it can be said that the brake pads are starting to thin.

This is because when the thickness of the disc brake decreases, the thickness that is clamped by the piston in the caliper also decreases. This phenomenon occurs because the piston will always press the pads against the edges.

4. Remove the car brake pads

This last method may require a bit of skill, but the results can also be satisfying, namely by removing them. To remove the disc brake, you need to first remove the front wheel.

After that, remove the bolts to take the disc brake from the braking system. Once the bolts are removed, lift the caliper and gently take the pads from the disc. If the pads are still thick, you will clearly see the line in the middle of the brake.

Thus, the explanation about the standard thickness of car disc brakes and how to check them. Hopefully, all the discussions above can be beneficial.