Parts for your 2013 Volvo Xc60-Brake pads

2013 Volvo XC60 brake pads — what they do and when to replace them

Brake pads are absolutely fitted to the 2013 Volvo XC60 and are fully relevant to its braking system. Technical sources including the Volvo XC60 2013 Owner’s Manual and Volvo VIDA (Volvo Information and Diagnostics for Aftersales) specify ventilated front disc brakes and rear disc brakes with an electronic parking brake, all of which use brake pads. Replacement pads should meet ECE R90 certification to match OE performance.

On this XC60, the pads squeeze the brake discs to turn speed into heat and bring the vehicle to a safe stop. They’re designed to deliver consistent bite, short stopping distances, and good pedal feel in everyday Aussie and Kiwi conditions—city commuting, wet weather, and the odd long holiday run. Quality pads also help keep noise and dust down while protecting the discs from undue wear.

As part of routine servicing, brake pads should be inspected for thickness, even wear, glazing, and contamination. Tell-tales that they’re due include squealing, a grinding noise, longer stopping distances, steering-wheel shudder under brakes, or a dash warning from the pad wear sensor. Many owners find pads last anywhere from 30,000 to 70,000 km depending on driving style, loads, and terrain.

For replacement, it’s smart to change pads per axle (both sides) and check the discs at the same time. Pads at 3 mm of friction material or less are ready to be replaced. On XC60 models with an electronic parking brake, the rear callipers must be put into service mode before retracting pistons—this is noted in Volvo’s service information and prevents damage. After fitting, bed the pads in with a series of gentle stops from moderate speed to stabilise friction and reduce the chance of squeal.

• Choose ECE R90–approved pads matched to the XC60’s spec.
• Inspect discs for scoring, cracks, heat spots, and lip formation, replace if below the minimum thickness stamped on the disc.
• Clean and lubricate slide pins and pad abutments, replace shims, clips, and wear sensors where applicable.
• Torque wheels correctly to avoid brake judder.

Question: How often should 2013 Volvo XC60 brake pads be replaced?

It varies with driving, but many owners see 30,000–70,000 km. Urban stop–start, towing, and hilly routes shorten pad life. Regular inspections during services are the best way to pick the right time rather than relying on kilometres alone.

Question: Do the rear pads need anything special because of the electronic parking brake?

Yes. The rear callipers must be placed in electronic parking brake service mode before pushing pistons back. This can be done via the vehicle’s service procedure or a compatible scan tool, as outlined in Volvo service information.

Question: Can pads be replaced without changing the discs?

Often, yes—if the discs are still above the minimum thickness, are not cracked or heavily scored, and run true. Always measure against the minimum spec stamped on the disc and replace the disc if it’s out of tolerance or heat-damaged.