How Often Should I Have My Brake Pads Replaced?

Have you recently noticed a loud grinding, squealing, or scraping noise coming from underneath your car when you step on the brakes? This is one clear sign your brake pads need to be replaced. Wondering how often you should replace your brake pads? Here are a few common factors to pay close attention to.

Getting regular brake maintenance is the best way to help extend the life of your brake pads. Automotive experts say most drivers can go between 30,000 and 70,000 miles before replacing brake pads. In most cases, brake rotors outlast the lifespan of brake pads. Following manufacturer recommended brake service and driving the speed limit can extend the time between brake pad changes.

Driving Habits - How hard are you pushing your brakes? Drivers who live in crowded metropolitan cities with long commutes are more likely to need brake pads sooner than someone who lives in a small rural town with only one traffic light.

Road Conditions - Using gradual braking techniques and coasting to a smooth stop is more likely to reduce the workload of your brake pads than slamming on brakes and making abrupt stops at the last minute. If long commutes and stop-and-go traffic are a part of your daily or weekly routine, you'll need to replace your brake pads more often.

Brake Pad Noise - The most common sign that your brakes are failing is a sudden grinding, squealing, or scraping noise. These built-in features in most brakes alert drivers and automotive technicians that you need new brake pads.

Brake Pad Service Near Me

Having your brake pad thickness inspected at regular service intervals when you get an oil change is a great way to keep track of brake pad performance. When taking your car in for brake service, automotive technicians help you choose the best brake pads for your vehicle. Brake pad composition and quality vary between brake manufacturers. For example, your mechanic knows that carbon-ceramic brakes outperform metal brakes when it comes to longevity.

Need brake repair? Bring your vehicle to TC Auto Service for brake service today!