How Long Do Car Brakes Last?

A common question we hear at the Greenway Honda of Florence service center is, “How long do car brakes last?” The average brake lifespan is between 25,000 and 65,000 miles, however your driving habits can play a major role in determining the lifespan of your brakes. How you drive, where you drive, and what kind of brake pads your vehicle uses can make a huge difference.
 

How Many Miles Do Brakes Last?

So, how many miles do brakes last? The answer to this question is not as simple as it may seem. The range noted above of 25,000 and 65,000 miles is quite large. This is because there are many factors that make it impossible to give a definitive number. Start by perusing your owner’s manual to find the recommended service schedule for your particular vehicle. Certain service intervals will include brake pad inspection, and you may even find when brake replacement is recommended by the manufacturer in this schedule.

When you choose an OEM-certified service center like the one at Greenway Honda of Florence, the technicians will know the brand inside and out. This allows them to more accurately estimate when the brakes will need to be replaced because they can look at torque calculations, performance specs, and more. If your brake pads need to be replaced, you can feel confident that your vehicle will be equipped with genuine OEM parts that are specially designed for your model and are crafted to meet the strict standards of the automaker.

What Factors Affect Brake Pad Life?

How long do car brakes last? Brake pad life is affected by a number of outside factors.

• Driving Habits: If you brake hard instead of pressing down softly or coasting to a stop, it can cause your brake pads to wear down more rapidly.
• Environment: Driving in the city means more stop-and-go traffic, which can put added stress on your brake pads. Driving on the highway typically leads to a longer brake life.
• Brake Pad Material: Carbon-ceramic pads last longer than standard metallic pads, however, they usually are also more expensive.

Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?

If you notice that your vehicle is shaking when you brake, it is important to have it looked at by a professional. It could be an issue with brake system itself, but it could also be due to a few other culprits:

• One of your tires is experiencing “run out,” or is no longer perfectly round
• One of your wheels is unbalanced
• Your car’s front-end alignment is off
• A loose control arm or damaged knuckle is affecting your car’s steering
• Your car’s axle shaft is damaged
• Your vehicle has loose lug nuts

Expect Quality Brake Service at Greenway Honda of Florence

To prolong the life of your brakes and save money in the process, proper brake service is a must. Set up an appointment with Greenway Honda of Florence, or contact us for more information. Remember to also take a look at our current service specials for added savings.

Service Specials from Greenway Honda of Florence