How Often Should Brakes Be Replaced?
Most drivers know that full-functioning brakes are vital for driving safety, either for a gradual slow down or a quick hard stop. This is why it is so important that you keep up with regular brake service. However, even with regular maintenance, brake repair will become necessary after many miles of driving.
So, how often should brakes be replaced? First of all, it is important to know that the braking system is made up of several components, including the brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Over time, these items wear out considering how many times brakes are used, even for short trips to the grocery store or to work. Thus, it is typically recommended that these components be replaced anywhere between 30,000 to 35,000 miles. Of course, the more you drive, the more wear and tear is placed on your brakes.
Here are some facts and tips about brakes every driver should know:
- Brake Pads and Rotors – Brake pads typically need to be replaced several times over the life of your vehicle. The pads apply friction on the rotors to slow or stop the wheels from rotating, becoming thinner and thinner.
- Where You Drive – City driving requires frequent use of your brakes with hard stops for lights and traffic. Driving on open highways reduces the frequency of braking due to fewer stops and less traffic.
- How You Drive – “Riding the brake” or “tailgating,” means you are using your brakes more frequently and harder than necessary. Try coasting while gently applying the brakes.
- Manual vs. Automatic Transmission – Brake pads generally last longer on a manual stick-shift because drivers can downshift (“engine braking”) to slow down.
- Calipers – The calipers house the brake pads and pistons and should last the life of your vehicle with good maintenance, such as replacing the brake pads frequently and keeping the brake fluid topped off.
A word of advice: To find out how often should brakes be replaced, read your owner’s service manual or ask your trusted brake repair technician.
Need to know more about how often should brakes be replaced? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Carlax Quality Automotive for more information about brake repair service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Palmdale, CA, and the surrounding areas.
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Most drivers know that full-functioning brakes are vital for driving safety, either for a gradual slow down or a quick hard stop. This is why it is so important that you keep up with regular brake service. However, even with regular maintenance, brake repair will become necessary after many miles of driving.
So, how often should brakes be replaced? First of all, it is important to know that the braking system is made up of several components, including the brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Over time, these items wear out considering how many times brakes are used, even for short trips to the grocery store or to work. Thus, it is typically recommended that these components be replaced anywhere between 30,000 to 35,000 miles. Of course, the more you drive, the more wear and tear is placed on your brakes.
Here are some facts and tips about brakes every driver should know:
- Brake Pads and Rotors – Brake pads typically need to be replaced several times over the life of your vehicle. The pads apply friction on the rotors to slow or stop the wheels from rotating, becoming thinner and thinner.
- Where You Drive – City driving requires frequent use of your brakes with hard stops for lights and traffic. Driving on open highways reduces the frequency of braking due to fewer stops and less traffic.
- How You Drive – “Riding the brake” or “tailgating,” means you are using your brakes more frequently and harder than necessary. Try coasting while gently applying the brakes.
- Manual vs. Automatic Transmission – Brake pads generally last longer on a manual stick-shift because drivers can downshift (“engine braking”) to slow down.
- Calipers – The calipers house the brake pads and pistons and should last the life of your vehicle with good maintenance, such as replacing the brake pads frequently and keeping the brake fluid topped off.
A word of advice: To find out how often should brakes be replaced, read your owner’s service manual or ask your trusted brake repair technician.
Need to know more about how often should brakes be replaced? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Carlax Quality Automotive for more information about brake repair service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop serves vehicle owners in Palmdale, CA, and the surrounding areas.
About the Author
