Ways to prolong the life of your brake pads

Looking to increase the lifespan of your brake pads?

Brake pads might seem small, but they play a key role in stopping your car safely. Many of us have likely ignored that annoying squeak when applying the brakes because it’s easier to overlook. However, ignoring it won’t make it go away, and addressing it right away is essential. Prevention is major in various situations, including this one.

Let’s get into ways to extend the life of your brake pads. Without them, stopping your vehicle would be quite challenging! So, let’s discover how to care for our brakes and guarantee safe travels on the road.

7 ways to prolong the life of your brake pads

Brake gently

To make your brake pads last longer, it’s important to brake gently. Instead of slamming on the brakes suddenly, try to apply pressure gradually. This gentle braking technique helps reduce the strain on your brake pads, minimising their wear and tear. By giving yourself more time to slow down, you’re also giving your brakes a break. Whether you’re approaching a stop sign or slowing down for traffic, remember to brake gently whenever possible. Not only does this help extend the life of your brakes, but it also contributes to safer driving. So, next time you hit the road, keep it gentle on the brakes for a smoother ride and longer-lasting brakes.

Anticipate stops

To make your brake pads last longer, it’s smart to anticipate stops. Instead of waiting until the last moment to brake, look ahead and plan for stops in advance. This way, you can gradually slow down, which puts less stress on your brake pads. By anticipating stops, you can avoid sudden braking, helping to preserve your brake pads and keep them in good condition for longer. So, keep your eyes on the road ahead and plan your stops ahead of time to give your brake pads a break and yourself a smoother ride.

Maintain distance

To help your brake pads last longer, it’s important to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. No need to tailgate anyone. When you tailgate, you reduce the distance between your car and the one in front, which means you have less time to react if they brake suddenly. This behaviour not only increases the risk of rear-end collisions but also puts unnecessary strain on your brakes.

By keeping a good amount of space between you and the car ahead, you can avoid having to brake suddenly. This helps reduce the wear and tear on your brake pads, as abrupt stops put extra strain on them. So, remember to maintain a safe following distance while driving. Not only does it improve safety, but it also helps extend the lifespan of your brakes.

Keep the car light

Carrying too much weight in your vehicle can put extra stress on the brakes, causing them to wear out faster. This is especially true when driving downhill or when you need to stop suddenly. When your car is overloaded, the brakes have to work harder to stop the extra weight, which can lead to premature wear and tear on the brake pads. To avoid this, make sure you only carry the amount of weight that your vehicle is designed to handle. This will help extend the life of your brakes and keep you safe on the road.

Regular car servicing

Make it a habit to have your brakes inspected regularly by a professional mechanic. By doing so, you can catch any potential problems early on and address them before they become serious issues. These inspections can help identify any signs of wear or damage to your brakes, allowing you to take corrective action as needed. By staying proactive with your brake maintenance, you can extend the life of your brake pads and guaranteeing optimal braking performance when you need it most.

Brake fluid maintenance

Regularly check your brake fluid levels and quality to assure optimal brake performance. Contaminated or low brake fluid can impact how well your brakes function, leading to increased wear on your brakes. By maintaining the correct level of clean brake fluid, you can help prolong the lifespan of your brake pads and make sure they perform effectively when you need them.

Choose quality brake pads

Investing in high-quality brakes specifically designed for your vehicle can make a significant difference in their lifespan and performance. While they may have a higher initial cost, quality brakes tend to last longer and offer superior braking capabilities. By choosing quality brake pads, you not only guarantee the safety of your vehicle but also save money in the long term by reducing the frequency of replacements and potential brake-related issues.

Let’s sum it up

To make your brakes last longer, be gentle when you brake, look ahead to anticipate stops, and keep a safe distance from other cars. Avoid overloading your vehicle and get regular brake check-ups. Make sure your brake fluid is clean and at the right level. And choose good quality brake pads that suit your car. These steps help keep your brakes in good shape and save you money in the long run.

If your brakes are squeaking every time you hit them, it might be time for a brake pads replacement. Send us an inquiry below, and we’ll get back to you! Or give us a visit in Tauranga.