How Long Do Car Brakes Last? Signs to Watch For

You will find yourself pondering soon after purchasing a new Chevrolet: How many miles do brakes last? By asking this fundamental question and gathering definitive answers, having functioning brakes is essential to a safely operating vehicle. It also gives Streamwood drivers confidence knowing their brakes are functioning optimally; a safe, confident driver does not need the stress of worrying about brakes malfunctioning.

How Many Miles do Brakes Last?

The actual number of miles that brakes last is difficult to estimate because many factors affect the life of your vehicle’s brakes. The general lifespan is between 25,000 and 65,000 miles. A 40,000-mile difference is a vast range, so read ahead to find out factors that affect your brake’s lifespan, indicators that the brakes need replacing, and how the OEM of your brake pads impacts your lifespan brakes. If you have any questions, reach out to Biggers Chevrolet for more information on brake lifespan and other automotive tips and tricks!

What Factors Affect Brake Pad Life?

It is essential to refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual to learn how often you should have your brakes checked, as some brake pad’s lifespan can reach 80,000 miles. Your manual will include a recommended maintenance schedule, including when to have your brake pads checked and often when to replace your brakes. Bringing your vehicle to an OEM-certified service center ensues certified technicians take specific calculations to estimate the mileage left on your brake pads. OEM-certified parts will replace the damaged brake pads. 

The following factors affect how long your car brakes can last:

• Driving habits: If you drive too fast, you generally brake too fast, which leads to your brakes wearing out quickly. If you “ride your brakes,” you tend to keep light pressure on your brake pedal, which wears the brake pads out rapidly. Keep your cargo load as light as possible because it is taxing your brakes to brake with a heavy load in your car. Drive at the proper speed and avoid tailgating, so you are not faced with braking quickly. 

• Environment: If you live in a mountainous or hilly area, your brakes will wear out much more quickly due to braking more often than on flatlands. City driving requires much more stopping and braking than highway driving, which leads to a quicker wear. 

• Brake pad material: Carbon-ceramic brake pads have a longer lifespan but are more expensive than standard metallic brake pads. Your owners manual might specify which materials make up your brake pads. 

Signs Your Brake Pads or Brakes Need Replacing

If your car begins to do any of the following, bring it to Biggers Chevrolet near Schaumburg and Bartlett to be serviced:

• You hear a screeching noise or squeal when you apply the brakes.
• You hear a grinding noise – this is an emergency because it indicates a problem that could mean your brakes might fail altogether.
• The brake feels mushy, which could mean the brake fluid levels are too low.
• If your car pulls to the side when you apply the brakes, this indicates a possible leak in the brake line.
• If you see a puddle underneath your car when you move your car from where you were parked, it could indicate a brake line leak.
• Your car’s front end alignment is off.
• You notice that your car has rusted lug nuts or a tire that does not appear perfectly round. 
• Your brake pedal and steering wheel vibrate when you are braking, indicating that your rotors are warped and could require replacement.

If any of the above become noticeable, check out our possible service specials and immediately bring your car.

Visit Biggers Chevrolet for Brake Maintenance and More!

Now that you have a guide for keeping your brakes in good working order contact us to bring your vehicle in if you are experiencing issues or need routine maintenance. Our expert technicians are available to keep your car in optimal condition in Elgin and beyond!