Blog

*Quick note:  If you purchase using some of the links on this page, I could receive compensation.

Be safer & save money by replacing brake pads.

Determining when to replace brakes by using mileage calculation on a vehicle is very important. Most people may not realize the damage that can be caused by letting brake pads wear thin. One issue is not having good brakes to stop with which is very dangerous. Another issue is creating rotor damage.

How do you know when to replace the pads in your disc brakes?

Have you ever been driving along and put on the brakes only to hear a grinding noise that gets louder and louder? That is a real sign that you have let them go too long without replacement. Brakes can start having that grinding noise quick, too. And, if the car is driven much longer, there is definite risk of causing damage. One day, the brake pedal may start pulsing when pressed. Then, the next day all of sudden, the brakes may start grinding. Bad news!

Learning when to replace brakes on a vehicle really depends on how much it is driven (miles) and other factors. For example, mail carriers use the brakes very often and many drive on roads that are rough. Brakes are used in various weather conditions, such as hot weather. Many vehicles are driven on salt and sand in the colder months which is not good for brakes. Other drivers may have a habit of riding with their foot on the brake pedal which will definitely help destroy brake pads.

Many gear heads like to do burn-outs. Burn-outs are made by holding the brake pedal down and making the tires smoke. This action will definitely wear on the brake pads.

Sometimes, brake pads will crack and cause one side to wear faster than the other. So, there are many factors to consider when trying to determine if a vehicle needs brake pad replacements.

According to Bridgestone Tire, brake pads under normal highway driving may last 80,000 miles. Under urban driving and more commuter type conditions, the pads may last 30,000 – 35,000 miles. Generally, the replacement time is between 50,000 – 70,ooo miles.

Check the brake pads for wear periodically.

Brake pads can be checked by shining a light on each pad to check the wear or stop by a garage and let the mechanic do a spot check. Spot checking the pads doesn’t take much time. However, for a more accurate check, the wheels do need to come off.

How much does it cost to replace brakes?

The cost of replacing brake pads on a vehicle is not that expensive. Many people buy the brake pads and do the work. And, some mechanics don’t really recommend purchasing the higher priced pads,such as the ceramic types. But for the difference in price, the better pads seems to be the better choice. The cost for brake pads can be about $38/ a set (front or back). Sometimes, coupons are available or sale prices for even greater savings for brake pads.

A mechanic may charge retail plus a markup cost for the pads. And, a hefty $100/hour or more charge for labor is very possible.

Replace brakes and rotors.

If brake pads aren’t replaced when they should be, the rotors may need to be turned or replaced, too. Generally, rotors cost $150 – $300 per axles for new ones. And, if a professional does the replacement work, add $150 – $250 for labor to the cost.

Conclusion

Car owners would definitely benefit by learning when brake pads need to be replaced.

>>>Check rotor and brake pad prices [here]