The brake pads on your car are responsible for stopping the vehicle before you get into an accident. With the right brake pads, you can feel confident navigating the road ahead. But, how long do brake pads last? We answer your top questions, such as on average, how long do brake pads last and how long do Honda brake pads last?
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Types Of Brake Pads
Before you answer how long do brake pads last on a car, you must first understand the different types of brake pads:
Factors That Affect The Lifespan Of Your Brake Pads
Have you been asking, “Why do my brake pads wear out quickly?” Here are some factors that diminish braking ability.
Frequent Brake Usage While Driving
If you tend to ride the brake while you are driving, you will wear through pads faster. To prolong the life of your brakes, it’s best to stay off the pedal when you don’t need it.
Caliper Malfunction
When the caliper gets stuck, the pads rub the rotor, causing them to wear down much faster. You might also notice that the car pulls to one side.
Manual Vs. Automatic Transmission
With the ability to downshift, manual transmission drivers can use their brakes less frequently, allowing them to last longer. Because there is no engine braking with an automatic, the brake pedal will be used more often.
Warped and Worn-Out Rotor
If you put new brake pads on with a warped or defective rotor, it will cause the pads to wear out much quicker. This is why the rotor should always be checked when changing the brake pads.
Stopping Habits
If you hit the brake pedal every time the person in front of you does, you might be overdoing it and leading to additional wear on the brake pads.
Brake Fluid
If the master cylinder gets overfilled, the fluid could heat up and expand more than it should. The force pushes on the calipers, causing your brakes to apply without you touching the pedal.
How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
How long do brake pads typically last? Most brake pads will last around 50,000 miles. However, your driving style, the way you use your vehicle, and environmental factors adjust the longevity. Plus, the actual lifespan will depend upon what type of brake pads you choose.
If you choose performance-focused brake pads, you gain more durability for continued abuse. On the other hand, a cheap brake pad offers a lower price but less durability.
Your automaker will tell you how long the factory brake pads are good for in the owner’s manual. If you install aftermarket brake pads, you will want to follow that manufacturer’s guidelines.
How Long Do Brake Pads Last: Individual Car Brands
Signs Of Worn Brake Pads: When To Replace Them?
How long do brake pads and rotors last? For the most part, you can expect around 50,000 miles out of the pads, and you could resurface most rotors. However, there are times when you will notice signs that the brake pads are worn early, requiring immediate replacement.
If you want to know how to check brake pads, watch out for these common warning signs.
Squeaking or Squealing Coming From Brakes
These noises are the first sign that the brake pads are beginning to wear out.
Grinding Sound When Braking
If you let the brake pads continue to wear down, you will eventually hear a grinding sound which indicates that metal is making contact.
Vibration When Braking
Warped rotors and worn brake pads lead to vibrations that can be scary.
Taking Longer To Stop
Braking performance decreases when the pads begin to wear out. This is also the case if there is a brake fluid leak.
Brake Pad Indicator Light Comes On
Some modern cars come with brake pad indicator lights, telling you when it is time for a replacement.
Brake Pads Appear To Be Thin
A physical inspection of the brake pads will tell you if they need to be replaced. If the material is less than ¼ inch thick, you should replace them.
Tips On How To Make Your Brake Pads Last Longer
Once you figure out the answer to how long do brake pads usually last, it’s time to prolong the life of your car’s pads. Here are some tips to help you out.
How long do brake pads last for? Much longer than expected if you know how to treat them. Take care of your brakes and they will provide optimal stopping power when you need it the most.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
How long do motorcycle brake pads last?
If you are careful with the motorcycle braking and choose a durable model, you should be able to get 40,000-50,000 miles out of the pads.
How long do mountain bike brake pads last?
Typically, you can get 500 to 700 miles from a resin brake pad and 1000 to 1250 miles from the metal brake pad on your mountain bike.
Should I replace all 4 brakes at the same time?
How long do front brake pads last compared to the back? They might not wear at the same rate, so there’s no reason to change all four unless they need it. However, you should always change both front or both back together in pairs.
How much does a typical brake pad job cost?
According to RepairPal, the typical brake pad replacement costs between $276 and $304, with the labor making up $94 to $118 and parts are costing about $183 to $186.
Conclusion
How long do brake pads last on a new car? Depending on what style you use and how you drive, you should be able to get about 50,000 miles out of the brake pads. Follow our guide to get more mileage out of your braking system.