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Oil changes, tire rotations and brake pad replacements are all important pieces of vehicle maintenance. Most manufacturers recommend changing the oil and rotating the tires every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, but what about the brake pads? It turns out that the answer to the question "when should I replace my brake pads" is not as simple.

How Long Do Brake Pads Last?

It's difficult to predict exactly how long brake pads last. Their life expectancy depends on several factors, including the type of brake pads you install, road conditions and driving habits. Some people need to replace their brake pads after 25,000 miles, but others wait as long as 75,000 miles.

Brake pads work by applying friction to the brake rotor. As you press the brake pedal, you push the pads down on the spinning rotor. This slows the spinning movement until it stops completely. If you press the brake frequently or like to wait until the last minute before using the brakes, you wear away the pads quicker than someone who brakes gradually.

Driving in the city wears away brake pads faster than driving on the highway. Each time you stop at a stop sign or traffic light, you lose a bit of the brake pad. You're also more likely to brake abruptly in the city, especially if someone in front of you suddenly changes lanes. If you drive in the mountains or pull a trailer, you also need to replace your brake pads more frequently. The extra pressure on the vehicle makes your brakes work harder.

Brake Pad Materials

The type of brake pad you choose affects how often you have to replace them. Organic brake pads tend to wear away the quickest, especially if you drive at high speeds or like to "ride the brake." However, they remain a popular choice because they're more affordable and less noisy than metal brakes. Ceramic or metal brake pads tend to last longer than organic brake pads, but they cost more money.

Signs of Worn Brake Pads

One of the most commons signs of worn brake pads is a squealing or scraping noise when you press the brake pedal. This happens because of an indicator built into the brake pad that makes noise when the pad wears away. If this progresses to a grinding sound, the pads may have worn away so much that the discs and calipers rub together.

You may notice other signs as you drive. If the steering wheel vibrates when you press the brake pedal, there may be a problem with the brake pads. This also happens when the rotors are warped, so it's a good idea to have this checked as soon as possible. Similarly, if the brake pedal goes all the way to the floor when you press it, it's time to inspect the brakes.

How to Inspect Your Brakes

If you suspect your brake pads are wearing thin, you can visually inspect them. Look through the spokes of the wheel and locate the brake pads sitting on top of the rotor, or brake disk. Minimum thickness of the pads should be at least one-quarter inch. If it looks like less material is left, it's time to get them inspected.

You can also ask your mechanic to check the brakes each time you take the vehicle in for an oil change. Having a professional inspect the brakes every few months makes it possible to catch potential problems. This also saves you time since you can get the oil change and brake pad replacement done at the same time.

Brake Pad Replacement: DIY or Mechanic

If you don't have the time or want to save some money, you can replace your brakes on your own even if your vehicle has an ABS brake system. Make sure you have the tools you need to remove the caliper and caliper bracket to access the brake pads. After taking out the old brake pad, replace the retaining clips and insert the new pads. Then, reassemble the brakes.

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