How Long Do Brakes Last?
Brakes are the most important safety system in a vehicle. They give drivers the ability to slow down and stop quickly, allowing them to respond to incidents and avoid serious accidents. In order to ensure that a vehicle is properly road-worthy, it is essential that brakes are replaced when needed in a vehicle.
In this blog post, we will answer the question, "How long do brakes last?" To be more specific, we will look at both how long do brakes and rotors last in a vehicle.
We will also look at some of the factors that affect brake pads' lifespan, how to know when brake pads are worn out, and more. Let's get started.
How Long Do Brakes Last on a Car?
The bottom line is that brake pads on a car last anywhere from 20,000 to 70,000 miles. There are a number of factors that determine the expected lifespan, including the type of brake pads a car has. In terms of brake rotors, these typically last for between 30,000 and 70,000 miles under normal driving conditions.
For the best mobile brake repair near you in Las Vegas, Summerlin, and Henderson, your premier choice is always Nevada Mobile Brakes. We make it easy for you by coming directly to where you at, whether this is at your home or place of work.
We perform a free brake inspection to see if you need our brake service. Click here to schedule a car brake repair or get a quote.
How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
This is a question that every vehicle owner will ask themselves at least once in their life. Brake pads can last anywhere from 20,000 to 70,000 miles. Below we will highlight some of the factors that affect the specific lifespan of a vehicle.
Brake pads are an integral part of a vehicle braking system. They are positioned between the brake drum and the brake show, housed inside the brake caliper.
When a driver presses down on the brake pedal, the brake caliper exerts pressure on the brake pads. They then clamp down onto the brake rotor, which serves to slow down the vehicle's tires.
How Long Do Brake Rotors Last?
The circular, two-sided machined discs mechanically connected to a vehicle's wheels are known as brake rotors. They serve to turn motion into thermal energy as friction.
Brake rotors can be expected to last 30,000 to 70,000 miles under normal driving conditions. A number of factors will cause rotors to wear differently, such as aggressive driving as well as rotor design and type.
Depending on the level of wear, rotors may be either resurfaced or replaced. Only in the case that the friction surface has no signs of extreme warping or cracks should the rotors be resurfaced. Otherwise, they should be replaced.
Factors That Affect Brake Pads’ Lifespan
There are a number of different factors that affect the lifespan of a vehicle's brake pads. One of these is driving habits. A driver who drives fast and frequently has to quickly hit the brakes in order to stop the car is likely going to experience increased brake wear.
By driving a car more slowly, the brake pads won't have to exert as much force to get the vehicle to slow down or stop. Due to reduced brake wear in this instance, brake pads can be expected to last longer.
The specific type of brake pads is another factor. The main types of brake pads are semi-metallic brake pads, ceramic brake pads, and organic brake pads.
Generally speaking, organic brake pads have the lowest lifespan and are subject to brake fade. Semi-metallic pads feature extended durability compared to organic brake pads. The best option in terms of lifespan and performance are ceramic brake pads; they feature a lifespan of around 70,000 miles.
A driver's typical driving environment also plays a role. People who live in hilly areas are naturally going to use their brake pads more frequently (given the need to regulate speed while going downhill) than people who live and drive in areas that are predominantly flat. Regularly driving in a busy traffic area, requiring drivers to frequently stop and start, is another factor that can increase the wear on brake pads.
Other factors that impact the lifespan of brake pads include the type of transmission as well as the condition of the brake rotors and calipers.
How to Know When Your Brake Pads Are Worn Out
Many modern vehicles feature indicator lights that alert drivers when the brake pads are too thin and should be replaced. Outside of this, there are a number of other signs that a vehicle's brake pads are worn out.
6 Signs Your Brake Pads Are Worn
Squealing or squeaking noise from the brakes
Grinding metal sound
Vibrating brake pedal
Vehicle pulls to one side when you brake
Brake pedal is less responsive than normal
Brake pads are less than 1/4 inches thick
If you are unsure about the condition of your vehicle's brake pads, we recommend that you schedule a service with Nevada Mobile Brakes. We service a wide range of makes and models and provide same-day service.
How to Make Brake Pads Last Longer
Small changes to your daily driving routine can have a big impact on the overall lifespan of your vehicle's brake pads. For example, it's beneficial to avoid heavy braking. To do this, avoid driving at high speeds, especially in areas where it is likely that you will need to slow down frequently or suddenly.
In order to brake comfortably and smoothly, it's important to keep enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.