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Jul 26, 2023

Brake Pad Replacement: What You Need To Know

If you’ve ever heard a loud squeaking or squealing noise when stepping on your

If you’ve ever heard a loud squeaking or squealing noise when stepping on your brake pedal, you know that is one of the worst sounds you can hear when driving. The sound is annoying, but it also sounds expensive. That squeaking is probably your brake pads, and they’re telling you it's time to replace them.

Brake pads are arguably one of the most critical parts of your car, and when you start hearing noises, you need to take action. However, your brake pads might need replacing even if you don't hear the telltale squeak, squeal, or grind.

Keeping brake pads in good condition is necessary for the safety of drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and other motorists. Keep reading to learn about brake pads, including how much replacement pads cost and when to replace them.

Brake pads are blocks made of ceramic or a metal alloy. These essential parts of your car's disc brake system sit behind each wheel on the caliper. When you step on the brake pedal, the calipers clamp the brake pads against the rotor. That friction then causes the car to slow down and eventually come to a stop quickly and safely. The pads release their grip on the rotors and eliminate the friction when you take your foot off the brake.

Installed brake pads aren't visible because their surfaces face the rotor, but you can see the calipers through spoked wheels. Some high-end vehicles come with caliper covers in bold colors. Enthusiasts can customize their ride with aftermarket caliper covers in popular colors such as red.

Brake pads usually last anywhere between 25,000 and 50,000 miles or two to five years, depending on how often you drive. The lifespan will depend on the quality of the pads, your driving habits and braking patterns, and where you live.

Highway commutes are easier on your brakes than city driving since there are fewer stop-and-go moments. However, if you live in a heavily populated area, even highway trips can take their toll on your brake pads.

Related: Brake Repair: How to Diagnose

Unlike some maintenance, such as an oil change, it's hard to know how many miles you have until you need replacing. Luckily, your brake pads will often tell you when it's time. If you pay attention to how your car drives and how it feels when you engage the brake pedal, you’ll notice when it doesn't sound or feel right.

Here are a few ways to know if it's time for new brake pads.

No driver wants to hear a loud squeal or squeak when coming to a stop. However, your car's manufacturer intends for them to sound like that when your pads start to wear thin. The terrible sound is your first and most obvious sign that it's time for new brake pads.

In most new cars, a small attachment in the pads acts as a wear indicator, similar to what many tires have to indicate that the tread level is low. When the wear indicator is exposed due to wear, it drags against the rotor to make a screeching noise. This unpleasant sound is your signal to take the car to get service. Most cars will make this sound to notify you, but not every vehicle does, so be aware of other key indicators.

An indicator light may be the easiest way to know your brake pads need replacing. Some cars have pads with sensors that trigger a dashboard warning light when the remaining pad material is thin, signaling it's time for a replacement.

Note: You should not confuse this feature with the ABS light. Check the car's owner's manual to know if your vehicle has a brake pad replacement indicator.

If your brake indicator light comes on, take the car to get inspected by a qualified mechanic. The pads may not need an immediate replacement, but you should follow the service technician's advice on when to replace them. Go ahead and schedule the appointment.

Your car will usually give you signs that something is wrong with it. If you notice your brake pedal vibrates or pulsates when pressing down on it as you come to a stop, it's a telltale sign something is wrong with your brake pads. There are many reasons why this could happen. The likely reasons are uneven brake pad wear and tear or overheating, causing the adhesion to spread unevenly on the rotors.

Whatever it may be, driving on vibrating brakes is never safe. If you feel your brake pedal is vibrating, take your car to get it inspected as soon as possible.

MORE: Why Do My Brakes Feel Spongy?

If you hear a loud grinding sound like metal rubbing together, that's likely what it is. Similar to the squeaking noise, some cars have metal indicators that cause this grinding sound.

Ignoring other indications can lead to severe problems with the brake system. Since brake pad mounts, rotors, and other braking equipment are metal, wearing away all the brake pad material ends with metal rubbing on metal. This situation is never good and can cause damage beyond brake pad replacement.

Unlike many other signs that indicate that you need a brake pad replacement, you need to pay a little more attention to your car to notice this one. When stepping on the brake pedal, if it takes longer than usual to come to a complete stop, that is a problem. Taking longer to stop can be the result of driving in a hilly area. When holding the brakes for a long time without releasing the pedal, contact with the rotors for an extended period can cause excessive wear.

If you sense your car is taking longer than it should stop, take your vehicle to a trained mechanic to get an assessment on the brake pads.

Most brake pads can last up to 50,000 miles with smart driving and braking habits, but it's not a hard and fast rule. If you’re reaching that milestone, or if you notice any of the indicators above, take the car in for an inspection.

Despite being a vital safety component of your car, replacing the brake pads isn't the most expensive car maintenance. It's nothing to scoff at, but there are more costly auto repairs. For most cars, it will cost around $300 per axle for disc brake pad replacement service at a dealership service center. Ceramic brake pads, which cost slightly more, provide smooth braking and are suitable for most cars. Heavier vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, should use brake pads with semi-metallic friction material.

Editor's Note: This article has been updated since it was originally published.

Brake pad replacement cost is worth every dime because they are essential safety components. Replacing your brake pads can cost around $300 per axle.

Yes, you can replace your brake pads. However, it can be a long process, so it might be better to find a trusted mechanic if you’re not an expert. It's essential that the brake pad replacement job is done correctly.

If your brakes are making a squeaking noise, it most likely means it's time to get new brake pads.

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