How Long Do Brake Pads Last & When to Replace Them

Introduction

The worn-out brake pads give slow response, and can wear down the vehicle tyre too. For making sure your vehicle runs smoothly; replacing worn out brake pads saves time, energy, and money. Also, it reduces the dragging screechy noise and saves your car from potential accidents. Generally, car brake pads should be replaced after running for 65,000-70,000 miles. Let’s dive deeper into understanding how long do brake pads last.

1. Understanding Brake Pads

1.1 What Are Brake Pads?

The brake pads of a vehicle are one of the most essential components in the braking system. They are made of steel backing and friction materials. They press against the brake disc to create friction and help in slowing the vehicle. They are pressed through the brake pedal. There are three main types of brake pads: ceramic, which is quieter and long-lasting; semi-metallic, which is high-performing; and organic, which is softer but wears faster. The brake pads in the front wheel, typically wear out sooner due to heavy braking forces applied often while the brake pads in the rear wheel perform higher. Choosing the right time for the braking system depends on driving style, performance needs, and the vehicle type. 

2. Typical Lifespan of Brake Pads

Generally, car brake pads last for 25,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on several factors. The life span of the brake pads depends on driving habits, braking needs, driving conditions, and the type of vehicle. Heavy-duty vehicles would surely need more brake pad replacements than a lighter vehicle. To extend the brake pads' longevity, regular checks, mindful driving, and optimal braking are crucial. 

3. Signs That Your Brake Pads Need Replacing

3.1 Visual Indicators

The easiest way, you can spot worn-out brake pads is through a visual inspection. If the thickness has reduced, it is a clear sign they need replacement. You can notice the uneven wear patterns that point to issues with the braking system. Regular checks with sticking callipers, and misaligned brakes can help catch the issues earlier.

3.2 Auditory and Sensory Indicators

Some clear auditory and sensory cues are – a high-pitched squealing sound, suggesting the wear indicator is creating friction with the brake disc. Moreover, you might feel vibrations and pulsations in the brake pedal while braking and the vehicle takes longer to stop.

3.4 Warning Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing

When brake pads wear out unevenly, one side becomes more effective while braking. Also, changes in the brake pedal feel spongy or overly firm. The pedal may also indicate a problem. You may also notice the dashboard warning signs and modern vehicles coming with sensors that alert you when brake pads are too worn out. 

4. Factors Affecting Brake Pad Wear

There are quite a lot of factors that influence how often to change brake pads. Aggressive braking causes faster wearing compared to gradual stopping. Moreover, geographical conditions like heat and hail also contribute to brake pad life. Driving conditions like stop-start traffic puts more strain on the brake pads than a motorway steady journey. Lastly, the composition material of the brake pads affects the durability, with some lasting longer while others wear sooner. Low-metallic brake pads offer a combination of organic and metallic materials. Some other materials used in braking pads are C/C composite, asbestos, and sintered steel.

5. Consequences of Not Replacing Worn Brake Pads

As the average life of the brake pads exceeds, it can make driving more prone to accidents. So, it should change, failing which leads to serious consequences. Also, pad material creates a metal-on-metal touch with the brake discs, once it wears away. Hence, checking out new brake pads cost or keeping spare brake pads beforehand can be helpful in increasing braking efficiency. It helps you clear the MOT test, leading to reduced expenses. Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your car roadworthy.

6. When to Replace Brake Pads

Before going for the maintenance, always check for the manufacturer's recommendations. Read some guidebooks for replacing your brake pads, or watch videos. A regular thorough inspection is essential before sending your vehicle for servicing. Instead of thinking about how often to change brake pads, check for warning signs like screechy sound, slow control of the braking system, or unusual vibrations. Replace your brake pads immediately if required, to ensure safety. 

7. Maintenance Tips to Extend Brake Pad Life

To extend the life of your brake pads, adopt smooth braking habits. Avoid carrying unnecessary weight, and practice smooth, gradual braking that puts less strain on the pads. Regular checking of brake fluid levels ensures optimal functionality of the braking system. Finally, schedule periodic brake inspections during servicing that help identify issues earlier. Checking for signs you need new brake pads, saves your money and keeps you safe on the road. 

8. Brake Pads and MOT Tests in the UK

MOT test requires efficiently working brake components like brake pads, discs, and callipers. Ignoring signs you need new brake pads, can cause issues with MOT tests in the UK as they fail worn or faulty brake pads. Moreover, issues like pad thickness, brake pad life, and damaged components can lead to failed MOT assessment. To avoid unnecessary inconvenience, your brake pads must meet legal standards. Overall, MOT needs balanced performance, and no issues like damage, leaks, and sluggishness.

9. Cost of Replacing Brake Pads in the UK

After knowing how often to change the brake pads, checking out new brake pads cost is essential. The average cost of brake pads in the UK can vary depending on your vehicle type. It ranges somewhere between £100 to £300. The cost also includes the labour charges which varies garage to garage. Moreover, with additional replacement of components like brake discs and callipers, the cost may be higher.

10. Brake Pad Selection Guide

Selecting the right brake pads is crucial to deciding how often to change brake pads in future. It is important to consider qualities that directly affect the performance and longevity of the brake pads. Then, choose between OEM or other manufacturer’s components. OEM parts are made according to the vehicle's specifications and offer aftermarket options. They offer a wider range of features and prices. Budget options are economical but premium pads offer better performance and, hence, can be more suitable for increasing the average life of the brake pads. Nowadays, well-known brands like Brembo and EBC are trusted for their quality when it comes to brake pad life. Futuristic eco-conscious buyers often opt for eco-friendly brake pads, made of recycled and sustainable materials.

In a nutshell, timely replacement of brake pads is essential. Vidarr Automotive recommends regular monitoring of brake pads for safety and accident prevention. Check out the latest OEM and premium brake pads now.

FAQs

1. How much do brake pads cost?

Generally, the cost of replacing brake pads in the UK is somewhere between £100 and £300. Cost depends on the vehicle type, the quality of the pads, and the requirement for the additional components like brake discs. Labour charges also affect the overall cost, and OEM premium brands often cost more due to higher quality.

2. How to tell if brake pads are worn?

When the brake pads of your vehicle are worn out, they become thinner (less than 3mm) or show uneven wear patterns. Other signs include screaky or grinding noises, vibrations in the brake pedal, and vehicles stopping at longer distances. If any of these occur, it’s time for a replacement.

3. What are brake pads made of?

Brake pads are typically made from a combination of materials, like steel, friction compounds, and binders. The friction material can vary, with common materials being ceramic, semi-metallic, and organic compounds. Each of these materials offers different levels of durability, noise, and heat dissipation for various driving conditions.

4. When should brake pads be replaced?

Brake pads should generally be replaced when the pad thickness drops below 3mm. However, it can vary depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations. It’s time for a replacement, typically every 25,000 to 70,000 miles, but they can be replaced immediately when warning signs appear.

5. Which brake pads are best?

The selection of brake pads depends on your vehicle, driving style, and budget. Ceramic pads offer long-lasting durability and quiet performance, while semi-metallic pads provide excellent performance and heat dissipation. Organic pads are softer, quieter, and eco-friendlier, though they may wear out faster.