How Long Do Car Brakes Last?

Most car brakes are rated to last for somewhere between 25,000 and 65,000 miles, but how long do car brakes last in practice? If you drive about as much as the average Ridgewood or Jersey City driver, you can expect to replace your brakes roughly once every two to five years. However, because this margin is so wide, it’s important to have your brake pads inspected regularly. You should also learn the signs of worn-out brake pads and know when to schedule service.

What Factors Impact Brake Life?

For a variety of reasons, there isn’t just one answer to the question: “How many miles do brakes last?” With high-quality brake pads and careful driving, you might even be able to get up to 80,000 miles out of your pads! Some of the most influential factors that impact your car’s brake life include:

• Driving Style: Aggressive drivers tend to go through brake pads faster. If you drive with a heavy foot and brake aggressively instead of coasting to a stop, your pads will wear out more quickly.
• Type of Brake Pads: Some brake pad materials last longer than others. Ceramic brake pads offer superior stopping performance, but they may not last as long as metallic pads.
• Weight of the Car: A heavy car takes more effort to stop, and slowing a heavy vehicle will put more strain on brakes.
• Environment: If you put most of your miles on during highway driving, your brakes may last longer. This is because you’ll need to use your brakes more often in stop-and-go city traffic.

How to Know When to Replace Your Brakes

You should be aware of how far you have to press down on your brake pedal to stop the car; if it takes more pressure than usual or you have to press the pedal down more than halfway, your brake pads might be worn out. If your vehicle shakes while braking, it’s likely that your pads have worn out and your rotors have become warped. Scheduling servicebefore your brake pads are completely worn out is the best way to prevent damage to your rotors. Vehicle shake could also be caused by uneven or misaligned tires, so be sure to schedule regular rotations.

The biggest sign that your brakes need attention is when you notice a change in the sound they produce. A high-pitched squeak is not normal, nor are scraping noises, vibrations, or any other sounds that indicate your brakes are worn out.

Schedule Brake Service with Our Team

The experts at Land Rover Paramus are ready to help keep your car running safely. Our team can inspect your brakes as part of your regular oil change or tire rotation appointment, and let you know if replacements are needed. Just make sure to explore our current service specials before you drive in from your home in Paramus or Fort Lee!