How Long Do Brake Pads Last?

With every Janesville and Chester drive, your brake pads get a workout. They supply the friction your braking system requires in order to slow your vehicle and bring it to a safe and complete stop. So, how long do brake pads last? Our service team at Susanville Ford tells you how long brake pads last below, and when you’re ready to schedule a brake pad replacement, we’re here to help.

What Causes Brake Pad Wear and Tear?

Whenever you step on the brake pedal, the brake pads make direct contact with the rotors. This results in friction, which the rotors need to slow and/or stop the movement of each wheel. But the combination of pressure, friction, and the heat they generate can be hard on brake pad material, which makes wear and tear a common issue for drivers in Standish and beyond.

Routine use is the most common reason for brake pad wear, but there are many other contributing factors. Others include your regular driving habits, like frequent braking and “riding the brake”; your typical driving environment, such as extreme, prolonged heat in summer; type of brake pad (see ceramic brake pad details below); vehicle make and model, with different makes/models having different brake-pad burn-off rates; and whether you have a manual or automatic transmission, with automatic vehicles often needing more frequent brake pad replacements. 

How Long Should Brake Pads Last?

Now, just how long do brake pads last? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the factors discussed above cause pads to wear at varying rates. But, in general, brake pads have a lifespan of around 20,000 miles to 75,000 miles.

If your brake pads are made of ceramic, you may be wondering, “How long do ceramic brake pads last?” The good news is that ceramic is the most durable brake pad material on the market today, and drivers who are fortunate enough to have ceramic pads can expect them to last up to 75,000 miles, on average.

Let Susanville Ford Handle All Your Service Needs

We’ve answered some important questions here: How long do brake pads last? What causes pads to wear down? How long do ceramic brake pads last? If it’s time for a replacement, schedule your next service visit online or contact us directly. Be sure to check out our latest service specials to save on your appointment. When you take care of your brake pads, they will take care of you and help preserve your vehicle’s safety and reliable performance.