It has been reported by auto shops report that many car drivers neglect needed brake replacement until they find themselves sliding through red lights and stop signs. Don’t delay until your vehicle is the cause of an accident due to failing brakes before you head to your auto repair shop for a brake replacement.
So what is the average lifetime of brake pads? Although the lifetime of brake pads varies for each vehicle and driver, brake pads can usually last anywhere between 30k-35k miles. Of course, this is largely determined by your driving habits and road conditions. For city stop-and-go driving, you will want a brake replacement much quicker than for straight highway driving, in which brake pads could last up to 80K miles or more.
Here are six obvious signs that indicate it’s time for a brake replacement:
- The distance to come to a complete stop is farther and longer than usual.
- Your car pulls to one side when braking.
- You feel the brake pedal pulsate when you step on it.
- The steering wheel vibrates while braking.
- You hear squealing and squeaking sounds coming from the brake pads
- There is metal-on-metal contact, resulting in grinding sounds and the smell of hot metal.
A Tip to Remember about Brakes: Every time you step on the brake pedal, a small amount of friction material is worn off the pads, becoming thinner and thinner over time. Ask your auto mechanic to check your brakes frequently to prevent extensive damage to the discs and rotors. Neglecting a needed brake replacement also compromises the safety of your vehicle.
Wondering what is the average lifetime of brake pads? Call our ASE Certified Mechanics at Gary’s Quality Automotive for more information about brake replacement and to request an appointment. Our auto repair shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE, and Doniphan, NE.
