What condition of brake pads indicates they need to be replaced?

Brake pads are essential components of a vehicle's braking system, and their condition is critical for ensuring effective stopping power. The general standard for replacement is based on the measurement of tread wear, specifically the thickness of the brake pad material. A wear limit of 2/32 inch is widely recognized as the minimum thickness that brake pads should maintain. When the pads wear down to this threshold, the material has typically become insufficient to provide effective stopping performance, leading to potential safety hazards such as reduced braking efficiency and increased stopping distances.

In this context, other options represent higher wear limits, and while it may seem beneficial to let the pads wear a bit more before replacing them, it actually compromises safety. Additionally, having no minimum wear limit would imply that brake pads could be used indefinitely without any concern for performance or safety, which is not suitable for safe vehicle operation. Maintaining brake pads above the wear limit of 2/32 inch is essential for ensuring the vehicle can stop effectively and safely in various driving conditions.