Brake pads: How long do they last?
Do you feel like your vehicle is taking longer to stop? Do you have to press the brake pedal harder to slow your car down? Do you hear a metallic noise when you brake? If you notice any of these symptoms, you should have your vehicle’s braking system inspected, including the brake pads. Indeed, they must be monitored and replaced regularly to ensure optimal braking performance and ensure your safety and that of your passengers. But how long do brake pads last?
What are brake pads used for?
Brake pads are usually made from special composite materials such as metal, graphite, glass fibers, and resins that provide high resistance to heat and wear. They are essential components of a vehicle’s braking system. They are located inside the brake caliper and are pressed against the brake disc during braking. Their main role is to convert kinetic energy into heat, which slows or stops the vehicle. This friction causes the brake pads to wear out over time. Thus, they must be replaced periodically to maintain effective and safe braking.
On average, the lifespan of brake pads varies between 30,000 and 70,000 kilometers, but this depends on several factors.
Factors that determine brake pad life
The life of brake pads is influenced by various factors, the main ones being:
- Driving style
How you use your brakes is one of the biggest determining factors. Harsh and repeated braking causes brake pads to wear out more quickly, while smoother and more anticipated driving can extend their life.
- Driving conditions
Road and weather conditions have a significant impact on brake pad wear. For example, city driving with lots of stop-and-go driving wears pads faster than on the highway where braking is less frequent. In addition, the presence of snow, ice or salt on the roads in winter accelerates pad wear.
- The quality of brake pads
Higher quality pads offer longer life and superior braking performance compared to lower quality pads. Although their initial cost is higher, investing in quality pads pays off in the long run by reducing the frequency of replacements and ensuring better safety on the road.
- Operating temperature
Brake pads operate at high temperatures during braking. Excessive temperatures can cause premature degradation of friction materials and reduce their life. Proper brake ventilation and efficient cooling systems help maintain operating temperatures at appropriate levels.
Do you think your car’s brake pads need to be changed? Make an appointment with the professionals at Pneus Groupe Unik in Dorval. These specialists offer you reliable and quality service at competitive prices for the maintenance and repair ofyour vehicle’s brakes.
