Brakes are one of your car’s most important system. You may never actually see the components of your brake system, but you certainly feel the effects every time you drive. Brakes pads usually last around 40,000 miles before they need to be replaced, but there are many factors that can affect this number. You may be able to get up to 80,000 miles out of your brakes before you need to purchase brake pads online. Here are some things to consider about your brakes.
How to Ensure Your Brake Pad Longevity
Your car’s moving parts have different lifespans. Brake pads wear out quicker when you ride your brakes and stop quickly. Instead, coast to a stop while you slowly press on the brake pedal. Another element that impacts the longevity of your brakes is the environment in which you drive. If you drive more on the highway where you’re not stopping and starting all the time, you will get more life out of your brakes. As with most products, buying higher-quality materials that lost longer than standard parts will also get you more life. If one concern is, “how much do brakes cost?”, you’ll want to check prices with AutoZone.
How to Know When to Replace Your Brake Pads
Although the brake pads aren’t seen, you will notice things that indicate it’s time to get your brakes checked:
- Squeaking or squealing noises when you brake – worn down pads have a built-in alert system to replace them. When the pads wear down to a certain size, the metal wear indicators make an awful noise to tell you to get to your mechanic.
- Grinding sound when braking – the grinding sound means that it’s time to replace your brake pads ASAP. You may be opening yourself to more damage and potential accidents.
- Brakes vibrate – if you feel vibrating when you apply the brakes, it’s a sign that your rotors may be wearing unevenly.
- It takes longer to stop – when you lose performance when braking, it means there is a problem in the brakes. It could be that brake fluid is low, brake pads are worn or another issue.
How to Choose Best Performance Brake Pads
Getting the right brake pads starts by checking the manufacturer’s recommendations for your car. For example, a high-performance vehicle may need brake pads that handle high temperatures. Most vehicles use semi-metallic pads, which work effectively on all types of vehicles. Lighter-weight vehicles can often use organic brake pads, which are made of a composite of materials. Organic brake pads are less expensive, but don’t last as long as semi-metallic. Ceramic brake pads are another type of brake pad made of ceramic material and copper fibers. These brake pads are extremely durable, but also expensive. They aren’t as effective in cold-weather climates because they can crack under extreme temperatures. You’ll have to find brake pads that fit your driving style, the specs of your car and your budget.
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