What is the average life of brakes on a car

Another major sign that your brakes need to be checked out is loss of performance when applying the brakes. If you're experiencing less than ideal stoppage times while applying your brakes, it may mean your brake pads are worn down completely or that your brake fluid is low often times due to a leak.

For a true understanding of what's going on with your brakes, you'll want to get to a brake mechanic as soon as possible to ensure you don't lose all braking abilities. Most modern vehicles come with brake warning lights that appear on your dash. Your brake light won't always come on when there is an issue — it's also the light that appears on your dash when your parking brake is engaged.

But if you're seeing a brake warning light and your parking brake isn't engaged, it's time to have a brake expert take a look at your system to diagnose your issues. One way to easily check on your brake pads is to visually inspect them for wear. To do this, look between the spokes of your wheels and locate your brake pad.

If you're experiencing any of the above symptoms, let our expert brake techs provide a diagnosis. We provide top-rated, affordable brake repair services at your work or home. The average brake pad life depends on several factors, including pad material , driving conditions, vehicle type and load, and personal driving style. Here are a few things that affect how long brake pads last. Also check the service manual for your vehicle for the recommended replacement intervals.

Brake pads actually aid in heat dissipation. When the pads wear, they are not able to take on as much heat and become more prone to brake fade. As a rule of thumb, you want to consider replacing the pads when the brake pad thickness is the same thickness as the backing plate.

Try not to wait until you hear that awful squealing noise from the pad wear indicator! Rotors normally wear with time due to the friction of the brake pads. They just last longer than the pads because they can be resurfaced made flat and even again a few times before needing replacement.

If you see any of the following symptoms of brake pads starting to fail , make sure they are replaced immediately, ideally with the same type of material. Brakes often squeal during wet weather but if you hear this sound during all types of weather, get it checked out. Modern cars recognise brake pad wear. When brake pads are less than 3mm thick, they become dangerously unsafe. If your car has a sensor monitoring this, you'll either receive an error message or see the brake pad warning light.

Don't ignore it! Veering to one side under braking or vibrations in the brake pedal are both signs that you need to change your brake pads or discs. If your car doesn't brake in a straight line, it's likely that you have uneven pad wear.

If you feel the steering wheel pulling to one side when you press the brake pedal, book a brake pad replacement as soon as possible. Likewise, vibrations can mean your brakes have warped due to excessive heat or that your brake discs are worn or damaged.

Either way, you shouldn't have to deal with vibrations. Your car should brake smoothly and steadily and you shouldn't feel the need to slam the pedal all the way down. Your driving style has a massive effect on how long your brakes last.

If your brake pads last nearer 25, miles rather than 60, miles, you may want to change your driving style. Here are some simple tips you can adopt, saving yourself money in the process! Heavy braking generates more friction. This produces a lot of heat and puts a lot of unnecessary strain on your front brakes.

Don't wait until the last minute to brake. Start slowing down early and gently squeeze the pedal until you come to a stop. Not only will it make your brakes last longer, it's also generally safer! How often do you sit with your foot on the brake at a red light?

If the answer is 'regularly', consider using the handbrake instead! Holding your car on the foot brake, and riding the brakes down hills, can cause the pads to wear quicker than usual. When you pull up to a set of lights, pull the handbrake up and take your foot off the brake pedal. When going downhill, try to avoid using the brakes. Keep the car in a low gear and try to use engine braking where possible.

Driving in heavy traffic means more braking. And more braking means more wear and tear for your brake pads. While it might not be easy to avoid rush hour, your brake pads' lifespan will increase if you can.

The same goes for motorway driving. Braking from a higher speed creates more friction and causes the pads to rub more and more.