May 10, 2017
Have you ever wondered what's standing between you and a potential wreck on the road? These small but mighty components, known as brake pads, are your first line of defense on the road.
Like all auto parts, brake pads have limits. Understanding how long brake pads last isn't just about maintaining your car; it's about ensuring your peace of mind on every ride.
Sometimes, a mechanical problem with your car can arise out of nowhere---seemingly without any red flags or warning signs. That can be frustrating, as it prompts you to make an urgent, unplanned repair to your vehicle.
In other instances, though, you'll receive a heads-up that your vehicle needs some work. For example, brake pads become worn down over time and will eventually need replacing. If you're paying attention, you'll see it coming in plenty of time to schedule the needed maintenance work.
The important thing is to be alert to the telltale signs of worn-down brake pads and to get replacements soon---otherwise, you could endanger your safety and your wallet.
The lifespan of brake pads can vary significantly depending on several factors. On average, brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. However, some may last up to 100,000 miles or more, while others might need replacing after just 20,000 miles.
Factors that affect how long brake pads last include:
Understanding these factors can help you estimate how often to change brake pads for your vehicle and driving conditions.
So how do you know when to change brake pads? The answer is pretty simple. You listen to them.
When a brake pad needs replacing, it makes a distinctive sound---a screeching or squealing noise---one that begins when you press down on your brake pedal and doesn't necessarily stop once the pedal is released.
Also, keep your ears open for a grinding sound as you brake---another way to know that your brake pad is on its last leg.
These are the symptoms of brake pads that need replacing---but what do they really mean? Well, they mean that your brake pads have worn very thin. This leads to metal-on-metal scraping as the caliper rubs against the rotor. This friction causes the scraping sound, while damage to the rotor can cause vibrations in the pedal and up into the steering wheel. These are all signals that the brake pad is worn down too far and needs to be replaced.
The squealing sound you hear is actually a safety mechanism built into the car---a tab built into the brake pad and designed to let the driver know that the pad has worn down too far and needs to be replaced before further damage is done. Listen to this warning!
Knowing when to change brake pads is important for maintaining your vehicle's safety and performance. Here are five key signs that indicate it's time for a brake pad replacement:
These signs indicate that you should consider replacement soon to ensure your vehicle's safety.
If you don't replace the brake pad fairly soon, you run the risk of further damage to your vehicle---to the rotor, in particular---which will make it far more expensive when you finally do take the car in for maintenance. And eventually, your brake pad will be worn down so much that safety is compromised---clearly, a worst-case scenario that you desperately want to avoid.
Delaying brake pad replacement can lead to several serious consequences:
How do you avoid these fates?
Listen for the sounds of a brake pad gone bad. Stay alert to vibrations and shaking sensations, too. When your vehicle tells you that the brake pad needs to be replaced, listen up!
Take action by scheduling a maintenance appointment for your car. In the long run, it could actually save you quite a bit of money---and prevent you from driving in a car that just isn't safe.
When it's time to address how often to change brake pads or when to change brake pads, turn to the mechanics at Meineke. Our skilled technicians can help you determine how long your brake pads last and provide quality replacement services.
Find a local Meineke mechanic shop for quality brake pad replacement near you. Also, remember to check our website for current coupons and special offers on brake services. With our regular deals on brake pad replacements and inspections, you can save money while ensuring your vehicle's safety.