Your car’s brake pads are critical in driving and helping you stop safely. However, like all parts of your vehicle, they wear out over time. So, how long should brake pads last? The answer depends on many factors.
What is the Lifespan of Brake Pads?
On average, brake pads last between 40,000–100,000 kilometres, but this isn’t a fixed rule. Some people find they need to replace their brake pads much earlier, while others can get away with using them for longer.
Factors That Influence the Lifespan of Brake Pads
There are several reasons why some brake pads wear out faster than others. Here are the most important ones to keep in mind:
Driving Environment
Where you drive plays a huge role in how quickly your brake pads wear out. If you’re constantly stopping and starting in urban traffic—whether it’s for lights, congestion, or pedestrians—your brake pads will wear out more quickly. On the flip side, rural or highway driving with fewer stops is much gentler on your brakes, which will help them last longer.
Brake Pad Material
The material your brake pads are made from also influences how well they perform and how long they last:
- Ceramic brake pads: These are made from a dense ceramic compound that resists wear and handles heat well, making them a durable option. They handle wear well but come at a higher price because of their superior quality and performance.
- Semi-metallic brake pads: These pads are a mix of metals and other materials, making them great at stopping and dissipating heat. But the metal content makes them tougher on your rotors, and they create more noise, which increases wear.
- Organic brake pads: Built with softer materials like rubber and fibres, these pads are quiet and easy on your rotors. However, their soft composition means they wear out faster than other brake pad types.
Vehicle Load
The weight of your car also directly impacts the lifespan of your brake pads. Heavy loads, whether passengers, cargo, or towing, require your brakes to work harder to bring your car to a stop. This extra strain causes the pads to wear out quicker, so regularly driving with a lighter load can help extend their life.
Common Signs Your Brake Pads Are Worn Out
Your car often shows signs when the brake pads need replacing. Ignoring these signs can lead to unsafe driving conditions and costly repairs, so here’s what to watch for:
- Squealing or Screeching Sounds: A high-pitched squeal when you brake is a common sign that your brake pads are wearing thin. This is a built-in feature designed to let you know the pads are reaching the end of their lifespan.
- Grinding or Growling Noises: Grinding sounds could mean the brake pads are completely worn out, with the metal backing scraping against the rotor. This reduces your braking power and can damage the rotor, making the repair more expensive.
- Reduced Braking Performance: If your car’s brakes are less sensitive than usual or if it takes longer to come to a stop, it is high time you replace your brake pads.
- Car Pulling to One Side: Uneven wear on your brake pads can cause your car to pull to one side when you brake. This can make handling the car difficult and unsafe, so it’s important to see a professional as soon as possible.
- Visual Inspection: If you can see your brake pads through the wheels, check their thickness. If they appear thinner than 6mm (roughly a quarter of an inch), it’s time to replace them. Some cars also have dashboard lights to warn you when your brake pads are low.
Schedule Your Brake Service Today
Ensuring your brake pads are replaced on time is essential for keeping you safe on the road. If there are any signs that they may be worn, you should not hesitate to take them to a professional. At Tyrepower, we specialise in keeping your brakes in excellent condition. We offer brake pad repairs, replacements, and a thorough brake system check to ensure everything is working as it should.
For the best results, we recommend having your brakes inspected every 6 months or every 6,000–10,000 kilometres. Regular maintenance will help extend the lifespan of your brake pads and keep your car running safely. Find your nearest Tyrepower store.
