FAQ About Replacing Brake Pads
After driving your vehicle for any period of time you know how the brakes should feel when you apply them. When they require more force to stop the car or begin making noises every time you apply them, you should consider replacing them.
Q: How do I know when to replace my brakes?
A: If you notice a big change in the way they respond when applying them. That change could be in the way of grinding, making loud noises, or what is often referred to as “chirping." Does your brake pedal seem to go further towards the floor? Have them checked.
Q: How long should my brakes last?
A: Under normal driving conditions brakes should last for about 30,000 miles in front and 50,000 to 60,000 in the rear. If your conditions are unusual such as very hilly or lots of stop and go driving they will wear out sooner.
Q: Can I wait until the light comes on or the noise begins?
A: Most vehicles are equipped today with signal indicators to help you know when a brake job is coming up. When you hear the chirping or see the indicator light on your dash it generally means you are down to about 1/3 of the pads. That is the time to begin thinking about replacing them.
Q: Why not wait until I begin hearing the grinding?
A: Nine times out of ten if you wait until then more than your brake pads will need attention. This can be quite costly. The earlier you put on the new pads the cheaper your replacements parts will be.
Q: Are there any special modifications that have to be done for these pads?
A: No. If you purchase pads that are made for your vehicle they just replace what is already there. Your calipers or drums need no adjustments for them to fit at all.
Q: Is there a reason why I should use the parking brake?
A: Most certainly yes. One of the main things a parking brake does is to adjust your rear brakes. Use it every time you stop to keep the rear brakes in adjustment.
Q: How do they price brake pads?
A: Most brake pads are priced per axle. If you are going to replace pads you don’t want to do just one side. There are usually rotors on the front and shoes on the rear, but not always. Always replace the axle and that means both sides of car.
Q: Will you need the same on front and rear?
A: That question has no standard answer. Vehicles may have discs or drums on both front and rear. The rotor and drum sizes may vary from front to rear. There may be different hydraulic pressures as well. The manufacturer will determine what needs to go where.