When to Replace Brake Pads and Their Lifespan

Your vehicle’s brakes are an important safety feature. If you’re on the road, it’s your job to ensure your brakes are in good working order. As a general rule, your car’s brake pads should be replaced every 40,000 to 100,000 kilometers (25,000 to 65,000 miles). However, this is just a guideline and this number can vary based on several factors including your driving style and terrain. Typically, front brake pads wear out faster than back brake pads.

In this post, we’re going to discuss the factors that could affect the lifespan of your brake pads and some signs that might mean your brakes need attention right away.

What causes my car’s brake pads to wear out quickly?

Brake pads can wear out faster than usual for a number of reasons, including:

• Driving Habits – The way you drive will play a role in the lifespan of your brake pads, and, naturally, the more you hit the brakes, the faster they will wear out. Aggressive driving with frequent, abrupt stops can increase wear and tear on your brake pads. Drivers who tailgate and don’t leave enough space for the vehicle ahead of them are more likely to be slamming on the brakes more frequently. Driving and braking at high speeds can cause the brake pads to wear out faster.
• Environmental Conditions – Brake pads can be affected by a number of environmental and weather conditions. Extreme temperatures are harder on brake pads: hot temperatures can cause brake pads to overheat, reducing their effectiveness and causing them to wear out faster, whereas cold temperatures can make brake pads harder to move and reduce their efficiency. Drivers often brake more frequently in the winter to compensate for slippery roads, which can wear down the brake pads faster and salt or sand used for icy roads can contribute to faster brake pad wear. Wet, humid conditions such as rain or snow can cause more friction and pressure on the brake pads than on dry days.
• Road Conditions – Road conditions can impact how quickly brake pads wear out. Potholes, gravel, or rough, uneven terrain can contribute to faster brake pad wear. If you often drive in hilly or mountainous areas, brake pads can wear out faster due to the increased braking force required on inclines.
• Stop-and-Go Traffic – Where you live and where you typically drive will have a significant impact on the lifespan of your brake pads. If most of your driving time is spent in the city in constant stop-and-go traffic, you’re going to need to replace your brake pads much more often than someone who spends most of their commute traveling down the highway.
• Weight – Heavier vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, typically put more strain on the braking system, leading to faster brake pad wear compared to lighter vehicles.

How do I know when I should replace my vehicle’s brake pads?

There are several signs that indicate your brake pads need to be changed, including:

• Visual Signs of Wear and Tear – Get in the habit of inspecting your brakes from time to time. If your brake pads are getting thin (less than 1/4 inch), it’s time to consider replacing them.
• Noises – If you hear strange sounds when you press the brake pedal, this is a warning sign that your brakes are beginning to wear out. Worn brake pads can make squealing, screeching, or grinding noises. Grinding often indicates severe wear and tear and you should get your brakes serviced right away to avoid damaging your brake rotors.
• Reduced Stopping Time – If it seems like your brakes don’t respond as quickly when you press your foot to the brake pedal, it’s a sign that your brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced.
• Warning Light – Some vehicles have brake pads with sensors that trigger a dashboard light when the pads are getting thin. This light is usually a circle with dotted brackets around it. Don’t ignore it!
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side – If your car pulls to either side while braking, this usually indicates that one or both brake pads on the opposite side may be worn.
• Vibrations – Vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal can indicate worn brake pads or warped brake rotors.
• Burning Smell – A burning smell coming from your brakes can indicate issues like overheating, leaking brake fluid, worn-out brake pads, or other underlying issues. If you smell burning when you hit the brakes, it’s advised to stop driving immediately and get your vehicle serviced.

If you notice any of these signs, we recommend you get your brakes checked by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.

Neglecting to replace your vehicle’s brake pads can result in costly repairs, or worse, serious accidents. Keeping your brake pads in optimal condition ensures your safety and the safety of other vehicles on the road. To get your brakes serviced, contact us today at My Calgary Mechanic.