How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
Your brake pads are essential for safe driving. In order to stop on time, you need to take good care of them, starting with keeping them on a good replacement schedule. To help you maintain your brake pads and maximize your safety on the road, we at BMW of Arlington have put together this detailed brake pad guide.
Below, drivers in the areas of Arlington, Dallas, and Fort Worth will find more information about how long brake pads should last, how to spot problems with them, and more. Read ahead to get started!
How Long Brake Pads are Designed to Last
For starters, you should know that not all brake pads are created equal. There are a variety of different kinds to cater to different types of drivers. Softer brake pads are made for those are do mostly relaxed driving, such as commuting, while harder and hollow brake pads are designed for heavy-duty jobs you’d do in pickup trucks or high powered SUVs.
With that being said, there isn’t a specific blanket number of miles that brake pads should last. However, you’ll find that most brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles if you equip your vehicle with the correct brake pads.
How You Can Spot Problems with Your Brake Pads
While brake pads are designed to last many thousands of miles, they can and many times do become worn down prematurely. Spending a lot of time in stop-and-go city traffic or in snowy weather conditions will cause you to use your brakes more frequently than normal.
If your brakes need to be changed before your maintenance schedule says they should, you’ll be able to tell if you look for these common signs:
- Dashboard brake warning light is on
- Strange noises when braking like squeaking, grinding, and squealing
- Steering wheel shakes or vibrates when you’re braking
- Mushy pedal syndrome, or having to press extra hard on the brake pedal
- Vehicle pulls to one side or the other while you’re braking
If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, it’s likely that your brake pads need to be changed or at least inspected.
How to Make Your Brake Pads Last Longer
Altering your driving habits can greatly extend the lifespan of your brake pads. Always stay a safe distance from other vehicles so you can prevent the need for slamming on your brakes, which can do a number on your brake pads.
You should also do what you can to keep your braking system clean. When you brake, tiny pieces of the brake pads get shaved off. Remove this debris whenever you can by spraying your wheels with a hose.
Need to Have Your Brake Pads Changed?
Thinking you may need your brake pads changed? We at BMW of Arlington can help! Drivers in the areas of Arlington, Dallas, and Fort Worth can schedule a service appointment at our on-site service center today by giving us a call or by visiting our service center page on our website!