If the friction material thickness is close to the minimum, then the service technician can suggest replacement because it is close to the end of its service life.
There is another factor to consider: Any service work performed on the braking system should be performed to “restore the braking system to as new condition.” It is this last statement that I believe the technician and the dealership thought when they performed a rear brake cleaning and adjustment and suggested the replacement of the front disc brake pads. Brake service life is extremely variable based on driving habits, speeds, as well as vehicle weight and type of driving. A front-wheel-drive vehicle such as Jane’s Buick is also harder on front brakes than most rear-wheel-drive vehicles because up to 80 percent of the braking is performed by the front brakes alone.
For example, if the vehicle was driven on the highway every day, the brakes could last much longer than 33,000 miles because the brakes are not being applied during most of the travel. A vehicle used in city driving may require brake replacement every 20,000 miles. Apparently, Jane did ask that the brakes be inspected. It was not mentioned in Jane’s letter, but I would assume that the dealer notified her of the condition of the brakes and did get approval before the replacement of the front disc brake pads.
Have an automotive related question? Write to Jim at jim@jameshalderman.com.
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