How Long Do Car Brakes Last?

So how long do car brakes last? The average brake lifespan is between 25,000 and 65,000 miles, but it’ll vary depending on how you drive, where you drive, and what kind of brake pads your vehicle uses. Learn more about the average brake life and more with the Big Star Buick GMC service team today, then check out our other auto service and parts tips to help you better care for your model.

How Many Miles Do Brakes Last?

The brake life range being between 25,000 and 65,000 miles is a considerably large range. We offer this range because it’s near impossible to give a definitive number. Some sets of brake pads can even last over 80,000 miles. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for more specific maintenance details as well as when the recommended time might be to replace the brakes.

Visiting an OEM-certified service center is a great option as the technicians will know your vehicle well. This means more accurate estimates when the brakes need replacing by taking torque calculations, performance specs, and more into account. They’ll also be able to replace your brake pads with genuine OEM parts that are specially designed for your model to fit better and last longer.

What Factors Affect Brake Pad Life?

The answer to “how long do car brakes last” changes depending on a number of factors much like how a vehicle’s gas mileage will change depending on how and where you drive. Take a look at a few of the factors that affect how long car brakes can last:

• Driving Habits: If you brake hard instead of pressing down softly, or if you ride on the brakes instead of coasting to a stop, your brake pads won’t last as long.
• Environment: Driving in the city means encountering more traffic, lights, and stop signs, so you’ll brake more. Driving on the highway usually means longer brake life.
• Brake Pad Material: Carbon-ceramic pads last longer than standard metallic pads, but they tend to be more expensive. If you don’t already know what type of brake pads you have, your owner’s manual might give you more information.

Why Does My Car Shake When I Brake?

Notice your car shaking when you brake? Be sure to bring your vehicle in for brake service immediately. The most common cause of shaking when your brake is with the vehicle’s brake system itself. However, it could also be a tire issue. Here are a few specific reasons why this might be happening:

• One of your tires is experiencing “run out,” or is no longer perfectly round
• One of your wheels is unbalanced
• Your car’s front-end alignment is off
• A loose control arm or damaged knuckle is affecting your car’s steering
• Your car’s axle shaft is damaged
• Your vehicle has loose lug nuts

If your vehicle’s brakes are acting up, be sure to visit us for maintenance! Our team will be able to tell you exactly why your car is shaking when you brake.

Have Your Brakes Inspected and Serviced at Big Star Buick GMC

When the time comes to have your brakes serviced, choose the technicians at Big Star Buick GMC With our rotating service specials and parts deals, it’s easy to save more on the services your vehicle needs to run safely. Have questions in the meantime or ready to schedule an appointment in Baytown? Contact our team at Big Star Buick GMC.