How Often Should I Change My Brake Pads?
Your vehicle's brake pads are one of the most critical components for your safety on the road, yet knowing when to change them can be tricky. So, how often should you change your brake pads? The answer depends on several factors like your driving habits, the type of vehicle, and even the quality of the brake pads themselves.
General Guidelines for Brake Pad Replacement
On average, most brake pads should be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on their wear. However, it's essential to listen to your vehicle—literally! Squeaking or grinding noises when you brake are often tell-tale signs that your pads are worn out and need immediate attention.
At Wayside Garage, we recommend having your brakes inspected every time you bring your vehicle in for service. Regular brake checks help catch potential issues early, saving you money in the long run and ensuring your car is always road-ready. As part of our Comprehensive Inspection during routine maintenance, we check your brake pads and fluid to ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Driving Habits That Affect Brake Wear
The lifespan of your brake pads depends heavily on your driving style. Do you tend to brake hard and frequently, or are you more of a smooth, gradual stopper? Drivers who often navigate city traffic, with lots of stop-and-go, will likely need brake pad replacements more frequently than those who drive mainly on highways.
In addition, mountainous terrain can wear out brakes faster due to the increased braking needed for steep descents. For drivers in hilly areas, we recommend more frequent brake inspections.
Why October is the Best Time for Brake Service
October is Brakes for Breasts month, and Wayside Garage is participating by offering a free set of brake pads with every brake service! This is the perfect opportunity to get your brakes inspected and serviced, all while supporting a great cause. Plus, our certified technicians will ensure everything from the brake pads to the brake fluid is in tip-top shape, keeping you safe on the road.
How to Know When Your Brake Pads Need Replacement
Here are some warning signs that you might need new brake pads:
- Squeaking or squealing sounds when applying the brakes
- A grinding noise, which often indicates the pads are completely worn
- The brake pedal feels soft or spongy
- Your vehicle takes longer to stop than usual
- You notice a vibration when braking
If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to schedule a brake inspection. Don’t wait until your brakes fail—you'll save money and avoid accidents by being proactive.
What Happens If You Delay Replacing Your Brake Pads?
Driving on worn brake pads doesn’t just compromise your safety—it can lead to more expensive repairs. When brake pads wear down too much, they can damage the brake rotors, increasing your repair costs significantly. Routine inspections and timely replacements are much cheaper than repairing or replacing an entire braking system.
How to Schedule Your Brake Service
With October’s special offer, now is the ideal time to take advantage of our free brake pads and get a full brake service. At Wayside Garage, our team will thoroughly inspect your braking system to ensure you’re safe and secure on the road.