Brake Question for 986
 

New owner - how do I tell when I really need brake pads? Is there a way to do so as an amateur?

Sure, drive them until the brake warning light comes on due to the sensor in the pad detecting that they are worn thin.

What is a ballpark estimate of how long brake pads last in city driving?

Depends entirely on your driving style. In the city, I anticipate stops, so I rarely have to use the brake hard, I just take my foot off the gas, leave the car in gear and use the engine braking to slow the car almost to a complete stop. I use the brakes lightly right before I need to come to a complete stop. I have had cars that the pads have lasted well over 80k miles.

If you subscribe to the "I'm in a big hurry to stop" style of driving, where you accelerate as hard as you can and then late brake for the next red light, you can go through pads fairly quickly, 10k miles or so.

On the track is another matter. I will go through about 1/2 the pad material on stock pads during a one day event.

Assuming the brake sensors are still connected.....I'm sure you've seen a few removed & tied up in the wheel arch too.

To Scottblue - its relatively easy to see the pads from the rear of the calipers with a flashlight - if in doubt, remove each wheel and you will see the thickness of the pads more clearly.

Thanks Steve Tinkler.

Pelican Technical Article: Replacing Boxster Brake Pads - 986 / 987

Here's a good DIY on replacing the pads.

A good indicator of when to replace your pads is, When you have to open your door and put you foot out to stop.:dance: