Buy Mercedes-Benz GLE350 Disc Brake Pad Sets

The GLE350 uses four-wheel disc brakes. Each wheel's disc pads sit inside a floating caliper that clamps a steel rotor when you press the pedal (Wikipedia). Because the system is hydraulic, the pads convert your foot pressure into friction that turns movement into heat.

• Fits 2016-present GLE350 SUVs (chassis W166 and W167).
• Front rotor diameter: about 330 mm (12.9 in.), rear: about 320 mm-check your build sheet to confirm exact size (Amazon).
• Always replace pads in axle sets (both fronts or both rears) to keep braking balanced.

Pressing the pedal moves brake fluid that pushes pistons inside the caliper. The pistons press twin brake linings (pads) against the rotor. Friction slows the wheel, and vented rotors pull away heat to fight fade (Wikipedia). A wire-loop wear sensor in the inner pad breaks when material thins, turning on the dash warning (MB World).

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Learn more about for low-dust performance.

Mercedes recommends a brake inspection at every Service A/B visit-about every 10,000-20,000 miles (Mercedes-Benz USA). Typical pad life depends on traffic, load, and material:

• Light highway driving: 60-70 k miles.
• Mixed city: 30-50 k miles.
• Heavy stop-and-go or towing: check pads every oil change.

• Squeal or chirp when braking (built-in "squealer" tab).
• Longer stopping distance or soft pedal.
• Dash message "Check Brake Pads" on the driver display (Mercedes-Benz USA).
• Pad lining at or below 3-4 mm thickness (kamienbrake.com).

1. Torque matters: Front caliper bolts tighten to about 79 ft-lb (dry M12 10.9 spec) to prevent rattle (MB World).
2. Bedding-in: After install, make 3-4 medium stops from 45 mph, then 8-10 harder stops from 60 to 15 mph without holding the pedal-this lays down an even transfer layer (MotorTrend).
3. Fluid flush: Replace DOT4 brake fluid every 2 years to ward off moisture-induced fade (Delphiautoparts).
4. Rotor check: Resurface or replace rotors if below minimum thickness noted on the hat (NHTSA).

For step-by-step car-care basics, see the Car Care Council tips page.

• Europe's ECE R90 requires replacement pads to match OEM friction within ±15 % .
• California's Copper-Free Brake Pad Law limits copper to <5 % now and near-zero by 2025 .
• A 2016-17 GLE recall highlighted longer stopping distances when pads were neglected; always verify your VIN for open notices at the NHTSA database .

Brake dust is a key source of non-exhaust particles; recent research found some pad compounds more toxic to lung cells than diesel soot (The Guardian). Choosing low-copper, low-dust ceramics and keeping rotors smooth helps cut airborne metals.

• Slotted rotors vent heat faster, delaying fade (Brake Performance).
• High-carbon rotors pair well with semi-metallic pads for spirited driving.
• Braided stainless hoses maintain pedal feel by resisting expansion.

Remember, any upgrade should keep within the GLE's ABS and stability-control limits.

Q: How do I know which pad material is right for me?
A: Daily commuters like the quiet of ceramic pads, while drivers who tow or travel in mountains may prefer the bite of semi-metallic linings for extra heat control (www.advicsaftermarket.com).

Q: What happens if I ignore the "Check Brake Pads" light?
A: The wear sensor triggers before pads reach the minimum thickness, but delaying service risks metal-to-metal contact, rotor damage, and longer stops (Mercedes-Benz USA).

Q: Why bed in new pads?
A: Bedding lays a thin, even film of pad material on the rotor, reducing squeal and helping the pads grab evenly (MotorTrend).

Q: What is brake fade?
A: Fade is a temporary loss of braking power when parts overheat. You feel a hard pedal but weaker stopping or a spongy pedal if the fluid boils (Wikipedia).

Q: How thick should pads be before replacement?
A: Most techs swap pads once lining wears to 3-4 mm-about the height of two stacked pennies (kamienbrake.com).

Q: Do new pads need special brake fluid?
A: No, but fresh DOT4 fluid every 24 months removes moisture that can boil and cause fade (Delphiautoparts).

Q: Are copper-free pads less effective?
A: Copper levels don't affect normal street braking; modern formulas meet the same stopping-distance tests set by ECE R90 (Department of Toxic Substances Control, EBC Brakes).

Q: Can dusty pads harm my wheels?
A: Yes. Semi-metallic pads shed dark dust that can stain alloy wheels. Low-dust ceramics stay cleaner and are safer for the environment (PowerStop Brakes, The Guardian).

Q: What torque spec should I use when re-installing GLE calipers?
A: About 79 ft-lb (107 N·m) for M12 caliper bolts keeps them secure without stretching threads (MB World).

Q: Does Mercedes cover pad wear under warranty?
A: Pads and rotors are wear items, so owners pay for normal replacements, but scheduled service plans can bundle the cost (Mercedes-Benz USA).

By following these simple guidelines-and replacing your disc pads, friction blocks, or brake linings before they wear out-you'll keep your Mercedes-Benz GLE350 stopping safely, quietly, and cleanly for every drive.