Why Does My Vehicle Need Brake Pad Replacement?

Let's start by looking at the role of brake pads in your vehicle. When you step on the brake pedal, the brake calipers squeeze together. The brake pads are attached to these calipers by their metal backing, and attached to this backing is the brake pad lining. When the calipers squeeze the brake pads together, the brake pad lining pushes against the rotors, slowing your vehicle down or bringing it to a stop. The calipers are made of metal, so the brake pad lining is made of a softer friction-resistant material. This helps keep the rest of your braking system from being damaged; however, it does mean that brake pads wear out faster than other components. When the lining is getting too thin, you should have the brake pads replaced. Failure to do this may cause the lining to rub away entirely, exposing the brake pad backing to the rotors and causing damage.

How Often Does My Vehicle Need Brake Pad Replacement?

Unlike some other components, the brake pads aren't replaced according to mileage. Instead, they are replaced according to wear levels, which is why regular brake pad inspection is important. You may find that the front brake pads wear out faster than the rear due to how weight shifts when you brake. If you want to extend the lifespan of your front and rear brake pads, it's best to brake slowly and avoid overloading your vehicle.