How Long Do Brakes Last?
Imagine you’re driving down one of the WILMINGTON, Newark, or New Castle, Delaware, roads during rush hour. The traffic starts to slow down, but your vehicle is unable to stop. Scary, right? Luckily, our vehicles have reliable brake systems that make coming to a halt possible. However, brakes, like most things, don’t last forever.
How long do brakes last? What are the signs of brake failure? The service center team at Winner Chevrolet of Wilmington is here to answer those questions for you, making you a more knowledgeable and prepared driver.
The Lifespan of Your Brakes
Your car brakes are made up of many different components that all work together to make stopping possible, whether abruptly or gradually. While the typical lifespan of your entire braking system will last you thousands of miles with proper care, some of these components might wear more quickly.
- Brake Pads: Brake pads are one of the most crucial parts of your brake system. These pads are the friction material that slow your wheels’ rotation. They apply this pressure to the rotors, causing your wheels to stop.
Since brake pads do a lot to help with your stopping power, they tend to wear out more often, typically around the 40,000-mile mark. However, you can prolong their functionality by driving the speed limit, changing your brake fluid when needed, and not carrying too much cargo. This may have them lasting upwards of 70,000 miles.
- Brake Rotors: Your rotors are a different story. Though equally as important to your brake’s functionality, your rotors will stay in healthy working condition up to three times longer than your brake pads.
Signs of Brake Failure
Whether you haven’t replaced your brake pads in a while or time has taken its toll on your braking system, your brakes will begin to fail at some point in their life. This is why it’s important to know the signs.
Knowing when your brakes are starting to break down will help you get the repairs you need to prolong their life or prepare for a brake replacement. When you see any of these warning signs, don’t put going to the service center on the backburner.
- Dashboard Lights: When one of the lights that indicates braking issues is illuminated on your dashboard, it’s time to have your vehicle inspected. Though it could be a minor issue or a full system malfunction, finding out why the light is on is the first step to saving your brakes.
- Strange Noises: One of the most common signs that you need brake repair is hearing a grinding, squealing, or squeaking noise when you stop. This could be the result of your brake pads wearing, your rotors rusting, or your brake wear indicators letting you know it’s time for brake service.
- Spongy Brake Pedal: When you press down on your brake pedal, does it feel spongy? This could be due to a leak in your braking system, which is a problem that should be assessed and resolved right away.
Lengthen Your Brake’s Lifespan at Diver Chevrolet
Now that you know how long brakes last and what to watch for while driving, are you experiencing any cause of concern? Whether you need brake repair or wish to schedule preventive brake maintenance, turn to the pros at our service center.
Our certified technicians can handle your brake issues, so you can stay safe on WILMINGTON, Newark, and New Castle, DE, roads. Make your appointment today!