How Long Do Brakes Last?

We've all been there: driving through the Miami, Miami Beach, or Hollywood areas, and suddenly you start to hear the screeching sound when you hit the brakes, leading you to wonder: How long do brakes last?

There are several factors that go into answering this question, and our team at Audi North Miami addresses them right here for you. Read through to educate yourself about your brake life, plus what you can do to prolong it.

A Briefing on Brakes 

Let's first touch on what makes up your braking system. You've probably heard of the terms: brake pads, calipers, and rotors. These are the components of your braking system, and essentially the pads and rotors are what wear out over time.

The calipers are what push the pad down against the rotors, which is ultimately what causes wear. When the brake pad wears down to a quarter of an inch, this is when you'll start to feel and even hear a difference, and you'll need to look into a replacement.

Why Do Brakes Wear Out?

There are several reasons brakes wear out, which can include the following factors:

• What kind of driver you are. Not to point fingers here, but if you're constantly hitting the brakes, or stopping at the last possible second, this is going to wear out your brakes faster than stopping slowly.
   
• What kind of driving you do. If your work commutes consist of stop-and-go traffic, this is another factor to consider, and will shorten your brakes' lifespan.
   
• If you have extra weight on your vehicle. If you're towing trailers or heavier items often, especially up and down hills, this will wear on your brakes quickly.
   
• The type of brakes you've had previously. There are different types of brake pads, with different quality materials. Some can last longer than others, which is something to consider for your next brake replacement.

Usually, your brakes should last you anywhere from 35,000-60,000 miles. Again, this is all dependent on your driving habits, and your previous brake replacements.

How to Tell if You Need Brakes 

We mentioned the squeaking brake noises you might hear when you need a replacement, but there are other ways to catch the issue before it gets too big and becomes a safety hazard for you and your riders.

If you're finding it's taking a bit longer to come to a full stop than usual, this is a telltale sign that you're in need of new brakes. Additionally, if you're pressing the brake pedal all the way to the floor, you'll need to take your vehicle in to your auto technician immediately.

Low brake fluid can also be an indicator that you need new brakes, as can a vibration or pulsing when applying pressure to the brakes. Again, it's important to catch these signs early, so that replacing your brakes doesn't become a safety issue.

Brake Replacements in North Miami

If you are in the Miami, Miami Beach, or Hollywood areas, our team at Audi North Miami offers a trusted auto service center that will take care of your brake replacement needs now that you know how long they typically last. Schedule a service appointment today!