My brake pad light came on. Around the time it did, I needed to get it through the state inspection, and it passed. The mechanic said the brakes were fine. So I'm guessing the sensor wore out before the pads. Can I reset the sensor light, or should I get a new sensor without new pads? Or should I do something else (that doesn't include replacing pads that do not need replacement)?

 

The light comes on at about 3mm pad left so as far as inspection goes its fine. But you will need pads shortly. You cant just get a new sensor on old pads as it wont fit and you cant reset as sensor triggered already. Only choice is new pads and sensor and then reset

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In the back of my head, I thought that would be the case. At least I have a little bit of time to get the pads/rotors I want and DIY. Thanks!

 

if the light bothers you

determine which sensor is the one that tripped. Then either remove it from the pad and clip the wires ... or leave it in place and clip the wires. Strip back, tie the two ends together (a little heat shrink is a good idea to water seal) and zip tie the wires out of the way. The car sees a new sensor. For a GEN1 you need to do the reset procedure ... a GEN2 should reset itself. (PM me for the reset or search here)

You still need new pads of course and you probably want to replace the sensor at that time. But until then you don't have to see the reminder . . .

The sensor is simply a loop of wire encased in plastic, positioned properly in the pad. As the pad wears down, so does the plastic until the wire loop is encountered. When the wire breaks it creates an open circuit and the light comes on. Connect the wires works exactly as does a new sensor! A new sensor has almost a foot of leader wire b4 the connector so where you cut does not matter much.

 

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I'm planning to do the brakes myself. Someone gave me a link to a shop he runs for a kit that includes pads and rotors for all four wheels, and two replacement sensors for under $500. I did some looking around, and for ceramic pads and parts of equal quality, I would only save $10 trying to make it "cheaper". So I think I'll get this kit.

 

We have some great brake kits here that may interest you. Comes with everything you'll need to replace for the job. We also have a great DIY that can help you as well.