Perhaps one of the most important safety parts on your Mini, it's essential to understand what Mini Brake Pads are & what they do!
This week on the blog we're looking at the different kinds of Mini Brake Pads available, how to make them last longer, how to replace them yourself & much more.

Mini Brake pads

The braking system in your Mini has a pair of brake pads, a brake disc or drum & a brake caliper for each of the 4 Mini wheels.

Mini Brake Pads are fitted in to the Brake Caliper, so that their rough, friction material is almost touching the disc on both sides.

The result of this when your foot pushes the brake pedal, brake fluid in your caliper pushes the brake pad against both sides of the disc. Resulting in friction that slows & eventually brings your Mini to a stop.

Over time, these brake pads wear & eventually need replacing.

How long do Brake Pads last on my Mini?

The lifespan of your Mini Brake Pads is usually dependant on how the Mini has been driven. Less hard / fast braking would prolong the life, where as frequent slamming on will wear the pads down much quicker. On average they would require swapping between 30000 - 70000 miles.

 

What factors can affect how long the brake pads last on my Mini?

There are many different factors to take in to account for an idea on how long your Mini Brake Pads could last.

Where you drive - the more stop/start driving you do in your Mini, the more worn your pads are likely to be. If you tend to spend more time driving on the motorway, in theory your pads should last longer than if you're driving around towns & cities. You use your brakes more to stop at junctions, traffic lights etc than you do on a motorway.

How much your Mini weighs - this includes the Mini & everything in it - passengers & belongings! It's easier to slow down a Mini that weighs less, than if it's heavier. Lighter = less braking needed, so longer pad life.

Type of Brake Pads - Mini Brake Pads are made from a multitude of materials, but all have different shelf lifes & costs associated with them. But, like all things, you buy cheap you'll need to replace them more frequently than expensive pads.

How far/often you drive - the more you drive, the more you use your pads/brakes... Ultimately the faster your pads wear & need replacing! You'll notice your front pads will wear quicker than the rear, as the front pads handle more of the braking power.

 

When to replace Mini brake pads

As Classic Minis aren't equipped with sensors for the brake pads, you'll need to ensure the pads are regularly inspected/checked by a professional mechanic. Your Mini Brake Pads will also be assessed when you have your Mini serviced, but in the meantime, look & listen for anything out of the ordinary.

Visual
You may be able to see the pad through the spokes of your wheel, depending on the size & wheel design you favour. If there's less than 3mm of pad, you need to get them checked.

Feeling
If your Mini feels as though it's pulling to one side, you likely have a brake fault.  An imbalance in braking efficiency can cause uneven wear on your Minis pads, this would need to be checked asap.
Noise
If you hear a screeching when you brake, it's a warning that you may need new Mini brake pads - or, at very least your existing ones need a check. If there is a grinding sound when you brake, chances are your pads have worn down fully. Do not drive your Mini in this case! Ring your local garage & arrange for the brakes to be inspected.

Vibrations
If your Mini Brake Pedal vibrates when you push down, this could mean that your brake pads are warped. This is caused by excessive heat building up, this can also cause damage or extra wear to your Minis brake disc!

Can I make my Brake Pads last longer?

The good news is there are a few different ways that you can make your pads last longer. Keep your Mini light! Unload any unnecessary luggage, empty your boot etc.
Try to anticipate upcoming braking situations in traffic, use your brakes gradually & steadily rather than hard braking. This also means avoid driving your Mini at high speeds, the less heavy braking you do, the less pressure you put your pads under, reducing the wear.

My Brake Pads need replacing, can I do it myself?

In short, yes... If you have a decent amount of Mini mechanical know-how. You need to be both confident & competent enough to carry this work out. Brake components fitted incorrectly can have catastrophic consequences for yourself, your Mini & other road users. If in doubt, seek a professional mechanic to carry the work out for you!

Only ever change your Minis Brake Pads in sets of front & back to keep wear even.

  • Remove the Mini Wheel
  • Remove the Guide Pin Bolt
  • Check the Mini Brake Disc for damage
  • Tighten the clamp to allow pressure to escape
  • Apply Copper Grease
  • Fit the Brake Pads
  • Test them for contact with the Brake Disc
  • Check your Brake Fluid

 

Which Brake Pads should I fit on my Mini?

Consider how & where you drive your Mini when shopping for new brake pads. You also need to think about several factors including the material, the operating temperature, noise, brake dust, ease of install & the cost!

You can shop our full range of Brake Pads & parts on our website here. If you need any help when trying to choose what's best for you & your Mini - speak to our team for free advice!

 

How can I check my Mini Brake Pads

Your pads will be checked during an MOT - along with your other Brake Components, however it's worth knowing that any pads under 3mm in thickness will need replacing.
You can check the thickness yourself by removing your wheel, the pad should then be visible through the edge of the Minis caliper for measuring.

Have any questions about these or any of our Mini parts and spares? Give us a call today on 01282 778731 or e-mail sales@minisport.com