When it comes to driver safety, few things are more important on your car than the brakes. Whether you need to come to a quick stop while driving fast on the freeway, or you are just dealing with normal stop-and-go traffic throughout the city, you always want to make sure your brakes are in good shape.
All brake pads and brake rotors will eventually wear out with enough use. They need to be replaced periodically. Likewise, it is important to get your brake fluid inspected from time to time.
When to Replace Your Brake Pads or Rotors
The frequency with which you need to replace brake pads and brake rotors may depend somewhat on how you drive. San Francisco naturally puts more strain on brakes because of its steep hills, many stoplights, heavy traffic and tight turns. If you drive down Lombard Street every day, you will be requiring brake service often!
Otherwise, drivers have different tendencies. Some people like to ride the brakes all the time or make a lot of sudden stops rather than gentle slow-downs. The more you abuse your brakes, the sooner you will likely need to replace the pads and rotors. Do what you can to have less-intense braking habits and you will extend the lifespan of your brakes.
Quality of Brake Pad Materials
Different materials can also affect how long your brake parts last. Vehicle manufactures and aftermarket parts manufacturers will use different materials. Oftentimes, the less expensive the brake pads are, the sooner they will have to be replaced. Quality materials can make a difference. Any time you have new brake pads or brake rotors installed, look for the warranty or manufacturer's recommendation for a general idea of when they'll be due for replacement.
The general rule of thumb is to replace brake pads and rotors every 50,000 miles or so. However, depending on the factors outlined above, your brakes could get worn out as soon as 25,000 miles or last as long as 75,000 miles. If you aren't sure about your brakes, it's best to consult with an expert like San Francisco Automotive Solutions.
Your Brake Repair Experts
Really, at any sign of brake trouble (squealing, squeaking or screeching noises or just difficulty in coming to a stop), you should contact San Francisco Automotive Solutions (formerly All American Automotive). Let our brake repair experts take care of your car's brakes and get you back on the road safely. Call us at (415) 523-0515 or schedule your brake service appointment online.