We don’t need to tell you just how important brake pads are for your safety. But it’s weird to think that, even when you’re hurtling along, they rarely ever cross your mind. These tiny little pads are all that’s stopping you (literally!) from losing control.
Despite the fundamental, bare essential importance of these little components, their lifespans can vary significantly. Most auto manufacturers suggest that brake pads should last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. But as with everything, there are a bunch of external (or internal, if we’re looking at the pads themselves) factors that can influence this range.
Let’s start by looking at the different types of brake pads you’ll commonly find in cars.
TYPES OF BRAKE PADS
There are three main types of brake pads, based on materials.
Organic brake pads are made of natural and/or carbon-based composite materials; compacted rubber, or fibreglass. They are the least expensive, and have fairly good performance in normal conditions – but they wear out faster, and don’t perform well under prolonged braking where intense heat can cause damage.
Metallic pads are far more durable than organic pads. They cost more, but can be made more cheaply from fused metal particles. Metallic pads dissipate heat better, too. Metallic pads can be noisier and harder on rotors, so sometimes, organic pads are blended with metal particles to slow down wear and enhance their performance to an extent.
Ceramic pads are generally the longest-lasting and the quietest, but they come at a higher price. They have excellent heat performance, and are highly resistant to brake fade as a result.
So, the pads themselves are a big factor in how long they’ll last. But how you drive makes a difference, too.
DRIVING STYLE AND CONDITIONS
Frequent, hard braking and start/stop traffic can wear pads out faster. On the other hand, lots of miles on the motorway has the opposite effect. City drivers (especially those on the aggressive side!) might find their pads to wear out more frequently than motorway commuters.
You should make sure to carry out regular inspections and maintenance of your brakes – because you really don’t want to find out what happens when things go wrong with them. Brake pads and discs are checked during an MOT, and if the brake pads are worn below a 3 mm depth, you will be advised to change them. The legal limit is 1.5 mm – so if your brake pads are worn below this depth, your car will fail the MOT test.
You should be checking this out long before you get to this point though, and a regular car brake service is highly advised. Thankfully, your car will give you some warning signs that your brake pads need attention.
Grinding sounds under braking suggests that your brake pads are worn down and need immediate replacement. Some cars have brake pad sensors that trigger a dashboard warning when the pads are approaching the legal limit.
Don’t ignore these signs – get your pads changed immediately.
WHAT TO DO WHEN THEY NEED CHANGING
When it’s time to replace your brake pads, a local car servicing centre is probably your best bet – even if you’re competent with tools and mechanical stuff. Replacing brake pads isn’t easy at the best of times, and can open a big can of worms if you get it wrong.
Regular brake checks during routine services can help you stay ahead of costly rotor and calliper replacements brought on by running pads too thin – while keeping you and others safe on the road.
BOOK A CAR SERVICE WITH MASTER TECH AUTOS
No matter whether your car has a diesel engine or a petrol engine, we’ll help you get it running like new. Call 023 8061 1161 or contact us to book your car service.