Parts for your 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero-Brake pads

1999 Mitsubishi Pajero Brake Pads — What They Do and When to Replace

Based on Mitsubishi’s workshop manuals for late-1990s Pajero models and the Mitsubishi ASA electronic parts catalogue, the 1999 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with front ventilated disc brakes that use brake pads. Many trims also run rear disc brakes with pads, while some variants use rear drum brakes with shoes. Gregory’s/Haynes repair guides echo the same setup. So brake pads are absolutely relevant on a 1999 Pajero, at least on the front axle, and often at the rear depending on the spec.

On a 1999 Pajero, brake pads are the hard-working friction blocks that clamp onto the rotors to scrub off speed. They’re designed to deliver strong, predictable stopping power whether it’s the weekday commute or a low-range crawl on a bush track. Good pads complement the Pajero’s solid brake hardware by offering consistent bite, stable performance when hot, and reduced fade under load.

As part of regular servicing, the pads should be inspected for remaining thickness, even wear and glazing. A sensible rule of thumb is to check them every service or 10,000–15,000 kilometres, and plan replacement when the friction material gets down to about 3 mm. Many 1999 Pajeros don’t have electronic wear sensors, so a periodic visual check is king. When replacing pads, it’s smart practice to service the whole corner: clean and lubricate slide pins, check dust boots, inspect the rotors for scoring and runout, and compare rotor thickness to the specs in the workshop manual.

Driving conditions matter. Towing, steep descents, sand, mud and water crossings can accelerate pad wear or cause noise. After off‑road trips, give the brakes a rinse to clear silt, and take a short, gentle drive using the brakes lightly to dry them. For road-biased use, low-dust ceramic pads keep wheels cleaner and stay quiet. For heavier loads or touring, quality semi‑metallic pads can offer stronger initial bite and better heat tolerance. Whatever the choice, stick with reputable brands that meet local standards and bed the pads in properly with a series of moderate stops to stabilise the friction layer.

• Replace pads in axle pairs to keep braking balanced.
• Watch for tell-tales: squeal, grinding, longer stopping distances, vibration under braking, or the car pulling to one side.
• If your Pajero has rear drums, have the shoes and wheel cylinders checked and adjusted at the same time.

Popular questions

How often should the brake pads be replaced on a 1999 Pajero?

There’s no fixed kilometre rule because driving and load vary, but they should be inspected every service or 10,000–15,000 km. Many owners see 30,000–70,000 km from a set, but replacement is due once friction material is around 3 mm or performance/noise suggests wear.

What are common signs the Pajero’s brake pads need changing?

Squealing under light braking, a grinding sound (often metal-on-metal), longer stopping distances, vibration through the pedal or steering, or the vehicle tugging to one side are classic signs. Many 1999 Pajeros don’t have electronic pad wear sensors, so these cues and visual checks are important.

Does the 1999 Pajero use rear disc pads or drum shoes?

It depends on the trim. Higher-spec models commonly use rear discs with pads, while some variants have rear drums with shoes. All 1999 Pajeros have front disc pads. A quick look behind the rear wheels, or checking the vehicle’s build plate and parts catalogue, will confirm which rear setup is fitted.