“How long do brake pads last?” is one of the most common questions we get at our shop in Waterloo. The honest answer is: it depends on how and where you drive. But there are clear numbers and signs you can use to plan ahead.
The short answer
Most brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 km. Some drivers get more, some get less. Front pads usually wear out before rear pads, because the front brakes do most of the work when you stop.
What makes brake pads wear out faster
- City driving. Stop-and-go traffic on King Street, University Avenue or Fairway Road wears pads much faster than steady highway driving on the 401.
- Heavy vehicles. SUVs, trucks and vans need more braking force, so their pads wear faster than a small sedan.
- Hard braking. Braking late and hard creates more heat and friction than slowing down early.
- Towing or heavy loads. More weight means more work for your brakes every time you stop.
- Pad type. Ceramic pads usually last longer than semi-metallic pads. See our guide on ceramic vs. semi-metallic brake pads.
- Winter and road salt. Salt and rust can cause pads to stick and wear unevenly, which is common in Ontario.
How to check your brake pads
On many cars you can see the brake pad through the spokes of the wheel. Look for the pad material pressed against the metal rotor. New pads are about 10–12 mm thick. When they get down to about 3 mm, it’s time to replace them.
If you can’t see them clearly, that’s normal. A proper check means taking the wheel off, which only takes a few minutes at a shop.
Signs your brake pads are worn out
- A high-pitched squeal when you brake
- A grinding, metal-on-metal sound
- Your car takes longer to stop
- A brake warning light on your dashboard
- The brake pedal feels different than before
Grinding is the most serious sign. It usually means the pad is gone and metal is rubbing on the rotor. At that point, you often need new rotors too, which costs more. Read more in 7 warning signs you need brake service.
How to make your brake pads last longer
- Look ahead and slow down early instead of braking hard at the last second.
- Don’t ride the brake pedal on long downhill roads.
- Remove extra weight from your trunk.
- Get your brakes checked once a year, especially before winter.
- Fix squeaks early, before they turn into grinding.
Should you replace brake pads by kilometres or by condition?
By condition. Two cars with the same kilometres can have very different pad wear. The kilometre range is only a guide. A quick inspection tells you exactly how much life is left, so you don’t replace pads too early or wait too long.
Get your brake pads checked in Waterloo
President Tire & Wheels offers a free brake inspection at 632 Colby Drive, Waterloo, for drivers in Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge. If you need new parts, brake pads and rotors start at $350 per axle with a 1-year warranty, or $499 per axle with a 2-year warranty (most sedans).
Get a free brake quote, see our brake service page, or call (226) 698-1667.
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