Wondering How Often Brakes Need to be Replaced?
If it is taking you longer to come to a stop at red lights and stop signs, it is definitely time to schedule a brake service for an inspection of your vehicle's braking system. You may be wondering just how often brakes need to be replaced. Although there is no stated schedule in your owner’s manual as to how often brakes need to be replaced, generally you will need to consider brake replacement about every 50,000 miles. How fast, or how slowly, the braking components (such as pads, rotors, and calipers) wear out largely depends on your driving habits and conditions.
Take a moment to study the signs below that is time to schedule a brake service:
- Loud brakes – Built-in sensors create a screeching or squealing sound when the brake pads wear down and they start to scrape against the brake disc. If the pads are completely worn down, you will hear metal-on-metal grinding sounds when braking.
- Excessive vibration – A warped disc will cause the brake pedal to pulsate under light or moderate braking.
- Leaking brake fluid – If you notice a burning smell while driving, it could mean brake fluid is leaking onto the hot motor.
- Longer stopping distances – If you are pushing the brake pedal almost down to the floor when braking, it means it is taking too long to come to a stop. Brake linings wear out gradually, so this could be a hazardous situation before you notice it.
- Steering problems – When braking, if the steering wheel tugs or the car pulls to one side or the other, it’s a sign the front brake pads are worn too thin.
- Dash Warning light – Many cars now have an electronic sensor that alerts you if brake service is needed, usually meaning that the pads have worn down to a specified measurement.
Brake Service Tip: A visual inspection is still the best way to determine if your brakes are wearing down. When you schedule a tire rotation (usually needed about every six months), ask your mechanic to also inspect the condition of your brakes.
Need to know more about how often brakes need to be replaced? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about brake service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
If it is taking you longer to come to a stop at red lights and stop signs, it is definitely time to schedule a brake service for an inspection of your vehicle's braking system. You may be wondering just how often brakes need to be replaced. Although there is no stated schedule in your owner’s manual as to how often brakes need to be replaced, generally you will need to consider brake replacement about every 50,000 miles. How fast, or how slowly, the braking components (such as pads, rotors, and calipers) wear out largely depends on your driving habits and conditions.
Take a moment to study the signs below that is time to schedule a brake service:
- Loud brakes – Built-in sensors create a screeching or squealing sound when the brake pads wear down and they start to scrape against the brake disc. If the pads are completely worn down, you will hear metal-on-metal grinding sounds when braking.
- Excessive vibration – A warped disc will cause the brake pedal to pulsate under light or moderate braking.
- Leaking brake fluid – If you notice a burning smell while driving, it could mean brake fluid is leaking onto the hot motor.
- Longer stopping distances – If you are pushing the brake pedal almost down to the floor when braking, it means it is taking too long to come to a stop. Brake linings wear out gradually, so this could be a hazardous situation before you notice it.
- Steering problems – When braking, if the steering wheel tugs or the car pulls to one side or the other, it’s a sign the front brake pads are worn too thin.
- Dash Warning light – Many cars now have an electronic sensor that alerts you if brake service is needed, usually meaning that the pads have worn down to a specified measurement.
Brake Service Tip: A visual inspection is still the best way to determine if your brakes are wearing down. When you schedule a tire rotation (usually needed about every six months), ask your mechanic to also inspect the condition of your brakes.
Need to know more about how often brakes need to be replaced? Contact our ASE Certified technicians today at Elk River Tire & Auto for more information about brake service and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop in Elk River, MN proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, and Otsego, Minnesota.
