2003 Toyota Echo is running good. My son ask me when he should replace brake pads. Car has 72,500 miles. It had Semi Met Pads front only put on 2003, with
43,977. So now it has 28,523 miles on them. Brakes seem good to me.
Driving is very limited only to do chores. What do you think?

Under normal driving those pads shouldr be good for at least 75,000 miles. I just replaced my OEM pads on a CRV at 90,000. There should be a low pad warning sensor that gives a high pitch squeal that goes away when the pedal is applied.

Driving just for chores can put more wear on brakes than long trips since the number of stops may be much higher. You should be able to see those pads just with a flashlight to see if they appear thin or not.
I think that with 28,000 miles, at least a good inspection of those brakes is a good idea at this time.
Here in PA, vehicle inspection is required once a year, and they are required to remove at least two wheels and inspect brakes.

Okay thanks for the advice

Check the wear indicators, using a good flashlight. I'd recommend that he have the brake fluid changed, if it has not been done in the last 3 years. This will remove moisture, corrosion, and crud from the system and help ensure long caliper and wheel cylinder life. Otherwise, when your son changes the pads/shoes next time, he may be in for a surprisingly large repair bill.

Thanks for the advise. Front pads were done in 2007 $231.00 front pads only at Tire Plus.
Shoes were never done


. Truck driver down the street said more of the pads do most of he work, the back shoes
Do less in front wheel drive. He changed his truck pads after 75,000 miles

He's right. Rear shoes tend to last a long time. Most Asian car manufacturers recommend changing the brake fluid every 2 years. I question whether semi-metallic pads are what Toyota calls for on that car. I would go with ceramic--they are less harsh on the rotors, stop better, run quieter, produce less dust, generate much less heat, and last longer.

City driving will wear pads out quicker than highway driving with the same mileage.

Very Good information