Opting for professional brake pad replacement services can go a long way in ensuring your safety on the road. Though most drivers understand the importance of replacing worn-out pads, few know how often to do so. This post will share with you all you need to know about brake pads, from what they are and how they work to how often you should replace them.
What Are Brake Pads and How Do They Work?
Brake pads are steel backing plates that contain a friction material adhered to the surface to use friction to slow your vehicle. Your car’s brake system consists of a brake caliper with two brake pads with friction surfaces facing a spinning rotor. There are two types of brakes: drum brakes and disc brakes. Though they both use friction to stop your car, they have a few differences.
For instance, disc brakes use pads of ceramic or metallic materials for friction. When you apply the brakes, the caliper squeezes the two pads into the rotor to slow or stop your car. On the other hand, drum brakes are attached to half-moon-shaped shoes and slow your vehicle by pressing against the inside of a drum.
You will find disc brakes on the front axles and certain rear axles of modern passenger vehicles. Drum brakes are more common on the rear axles of light trucks and a few modern passenger vehicles.
How Often to Replace Brake Pads
Knowing how long brake pads last can help determine how often you should schedule your brake pad replacement services. However, your pads’ lifespan will vary depending on your vehicle and how and where you drive. For instance, driving in heavy commuter traffic or urban areas engages the pads more frequently than driving on highways or rural locations.
The general rule is to replace your brake pads every 30,000 to 35,000 miles when you mainly drive in urban areas. Those who primarily drive in less demanding situations can replace their pads every 80,000 miles.
How to Know When to Replace Your Brake Pads
Instead of keeping track of your mileage, there are easier ways to determine when to replace your brake pads. Consider scheduling brake pad replacement if you notice:
- Screeching or squealing noises: Replace your pads as soon as possible if you begin hearing a screeching, squealing, or whining noise every time you engage your brakes.
- Deep metallic grinding: The presence of deep, low noises that resemble grinding metal could mean that your pads’ backing plates are making contact with the discs.
- Indicator lights: Some cars have indicator lights on the dashboard that tell you when to replace your brake pads.
Cost of Replacement Brake Pads
The average cost of a brake pad replacement service ranges between $250 and $280. These prices will vary depending on the quality of the replacement materials and how much the brake mechanic will charge for labor.
On top of this, the total brake job price could be higher if additional repairs or services are necessary, such as changing the brake fluid or adding brake grease.
Professional Brake Pad Replacement Services in the Sanford, FL, Area
While your vehicle’s overall maintenance is essential, ensuring your brake pads are in optimal condition could be the difference between life and death.
At Welker Automotive, we have a team of well-trained brake mechanics ready to offer you the replacement services you need. We proudly provide our customers with professional work, quality results, and exceptional customer service.
Call Welker Automotive at (407) 878-3738 to schedule your brake pad replacement today.
