Car brakes play a crucial safety role in your car – you simply wouldn’t be able to drive without them. In this guide, we share all the facts you need to know about your brake pads, from lifespan to how they operate within your car.
What Are Brake Pads?
Brake pads are designed to slow or stop the motion of a car. Typically, a braking system consists of two brake pads, a brake disc, and a brake caliper for each wheel.
Through the use of hydraulic fluid, the caliper pushes each brake pad against the side of the rotating brake disc. This creates friction, which allows the vehicle to slow down or stop.
How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
Most car experts agree that brake pads should be replaced every 25,000 to 65,000 miles. However, this will vary depending on the driving conditions and your style of driving.
What Can Affect The Lifespan Of Brake Pads?
Here are the main factors that can directly impact the lifespan of your vehicle’s brake pads:
Driving Style
The way we drive cars can affect how long brake pads can last. For instance, if you’re someone who drives fast and is late to press the brake pedal – your vehicle will require more stopping power from the brake pads to bring the car to a halt. As a result, this can cause your brakes to wear quickly.
To help extend the lifespan of your brake pads, try moving off smoothly and always stick to the speed limits. That way your brake pads won’t need to exert as much force to stop the vehicle.
Driving Terrain
The environment around you can also play a role in the condition of your brake pads. If you live in an area with plenty of hills, you’re likely to rely on your brake pads more often than someone who lives on flat terrain. This is because you will use your brake to steady your speed as you drive down hills. Plus, those who regularly drive in heavy city traffic will be forced to use their brakes more often too.
Your Car’s Weight
Another factor that influences the condition of your brake pads is the weight that’s being carried by your vehicle. The heavier your car, the greater the effort that’s required from your brakes to slow it down. Additional weight could include four or five passengers, a loaded boot, or if you’re towing a trailer, for instance.
Plus, it depends on the make and model of your vehicle. If you’re someone who drives a 4×4, it’s going to require more force from the brakes to stop than that of a small family car.