Your vehicle's brake system is an integral part of how your vehicle operates. It is important for safety especially, making sure that you are able to slow down to stop when you need to. While brake issues may not occur for you very often, you should be aware of how often your car's brake pads should be replaced in order to keep safe on the road.
Brake pads are the component within the brake system that gently stops your vehicle's tires from rotating when you press down on the brake pedal. The brakes pads will press against the rotor in order to slow or stop the wheels. Since the brake pads undergo a high amount of heat, usage, and pressure, they tend to wear down over time. When you have worn brake pads, metal to metal contact can occur which can lead to a decrease in brake efficiency and other brake part damage.
Good quality brake pads can last anywhere between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, however other factors such as how often you drive your car and your individual driving habits can also have an effect. It is good to know that your front brakes take up more of the stopping power than the rears and thus they will need to be replaced more often. This is also why when you look through your wheels you will see that the disk rotor on the front is usually much larger than the rotor in the rear. Other factors including mountain driving and the condition of your shocks and struts can play into how quickly brakes need replaced.
When it's time to change out your brake pads, you will notice one or more of the following symptoms:
- Brake pedal shakes when pressed
- Lack of brake power
- Screeching or squealing noise when braking
- Vibrating
As soon as you notice any of the warning signs listed above, we invite you to bring your vehicle to the experts here at Pickering's Auto Service. We will ensure that your vehicle is properly inspected and will determine if you do indeed need new brake pads. It is a good idea to have a Full Vehicle Health Inspection performed1-2 times per year where a certified technician looks over your entire vehicle including a thorough brake inspection. Give us a call or stop by our shop today!