January 1, 2025

HOW LONG SHOULD MY BRAKES LAST?

The lifespan of brakes can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the type of brake system, driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance. However, as a general rule of thumb, brake pads typically last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, while brake rotors can last anywhere from 50,000 to 70,000 miles.

It’s important to note that these are just rough estimates and that individual experiences may vary. For example, if you frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic or use your brakes aggressively, they may wear out more quickly. On the other hand, if you drive primarily on highways and use your brakes sparingly, they may last longer.

brake discs and pads - brake pads stockfoto's en -beelden

 

Regular maintenance, such as having your brake system inspected and serviced at recommended intervals, can help extend the life of your brakes. If you notice any unusual noises or vibrations when braking, or if your brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it’s important to have your brakes checked as soon as possible, as these can be signs of a potential problem.

What Are the Signs I Need A Replacement?

There are several signs that may indicate you need a brake replacement. Some of the most common signs include:

  1. Squeaking or grinding noise: If you hear a high-pitched squealing or grinding noise when you apply your brakes, it may be a sign that your brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced.
  2. Reduced responsiveness: If your brakes are slow to respond or feel spongy when you apply them, it may indicate that there is air in the brake lines or that the brake pads are worn down.
  3. Vibrations: If you feel vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal or steering wheel when you apply your brakes, it may be a sign that your brake rotors are warped or damaged and need to be replaced.
  4. Warning light: If your vehicle’s brake warning light comes on, it’s important to have your brakes checked as soon as possible, as this could indicate a problem with the brake system.
  5. Longer stopping distance: If you notice that it takes longer to come to a stop or that your vehicle doesn’t stop as quickly as it used to, it may be a sign that your brakes are worn down and need to be replaced.

If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to have your brakes inspected and serviced by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road.

Why do my brake pads wear out quickly?

Brake pads can wear out more quickly than expected for a variety of reasons, including:

  1. Aggressive driving: Frequent hard braking, such as driving in stop-and-go traffic or driving downhill, can cause brake pads to wear out more quickly.
  2. Poor quality brake pads: Cheap or low-quality brake pads may wear out more quickly than higher-quality options.
  3. Heavy loads: Carrying heavy loads or towing can put extra stress on your brakes and cause them to wear out more quickly.
  4. Environmental factors: Extreme temperatures, such as hot summer weather or cold winter weather, can cause your brake pads to wear out more quickly.
  5. Lack of maintenance: Neglecting routine maintenance, such as failing to have your brakes inspected and serviced regularly, can lead to accelerated wear and tear on your brake pads.
  6. Misaligned wheels: If your wheels are misaligned, it can cause your brake pads to wear unevenly and more quickly on one side.

To help extend the life of your brake pads, it’s important to drive conservatively, maintain your vehicle regularly, and use high-quality brake pads when replacing them. If you notice any unusual noises or vibrations when braking, it’s important to have your brakes inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road.

How do you tell if the brake pads are worn?

Worn brake pads can affect your vehicle’s braking performance and safety. Here are common signs to tell if your brake pads need replacing:

1. Squealing or Screeching Sounds

  • Most brake pads have wear indicators that produce a high-pitched squealing noise when they are worn down. If you hear this regularly, it’s time to check the pads.

2. Grinding Noise

  • A grinding or growling sound when braking could indicate that the brake pads are completely worn out, and the metal backing plate is grinding against the rotor.

3. Reduced Braking Performance

  • If it takes longer to stop or you feel less responsive braking, your pads might be worn out.

4. Brake Warning Light

  • Some vehicles have a dashboard warning light that activates when the brake pads are excessively worn.

5. Visual Inspection

  • Look through the wheel spokes to see the brake pads. If they appear less than 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) thick, they need replacing soon.

6. Vibration When Braking

  • Worn or uneven brake pads can cause vibrations or a pulsating feeling in the brake pedal when stopping.

7. Pulling to One Side

  • If your vehicle pulls to one side while braking, it might indicate uneven brake pad wear.

8. Mileage

  • Check the manufacturer’s recommended mileage for brake pad replacement, usually between 25,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on the type of driving and pads.

What to Do

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to have your brakes inspected by a professional. Driving with worn brake pads can damage other components like rotors and increase repair costs.