Most brake pads have some kind of sensors, the sensor is usually at about 1.5-2.0 mm thick on the brake lining, brake pad should be replaced before or when the sensor get into contact with rotor.
Brake pads with small metal tabs acting as mechanical wear sensors can wear the rotor when the pad is wear down to it. Brake pads with electronic wear sensor doesn't damage the rotor but it can be expensive at $7-10 or more each.
I usually replace brake pads when lining wears down to around 3-4 mm or the thickness of the backing plate. When the lining wears down to around 4-5 mm I start looking for replacement, so that I have several months looking for sale or deep discount price.
Just bought a 'Used-Like New - Item may come repackaged' StopTech 309.08290 Street Performance Front Brake Pad from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $10, regular price is $45. This pad fits Acura RSX 2002-2006, Civic SI 2006-2011 and all model years S2000.
Brake pads with small metal tabs acting as mechanical wear sensors can wear the rotor when the pad is wear down to it. Brake pads with electronic wear sensor doesn't damage the rotor but it can be expensive at $7-10 or more each.
I usually replace brake pads when lining wears down to around 3-4 mm or the thickness of the backing plate. When the lining wears down to around 4-5 mm I start looking for replacement, so that I have several months looking for sale or deep discount price.
Just bought a 'Used-Like New - Item may come repackaged' StopTech 309.08290 Street Performance Front Brake Pad from Amazon Warehouse Deals for $10, regular price is $45. This pad fits Acura RSX 2002-2006, Civic SI 2006-2011 and all model years S2000.