How Often Should You be Changing Brake Pads and Rotors?

If you have been driving for a while in Sarasota, you already know that there are times you have to slam on your brakes quickly in order to avoid an accident. Maybe it’s because someone pulled out in front of you, or you were avoiding an accident. No matter what the reason, your brakes will get a workout. How will you know when you need to change your brake pads and rotors? We have some tips.

When to Service Your Brakes

Your brakes work to stop your car when you push down on the brake pedal. When you push the pedal, the brake fluid creates the friction between the wheel and the braking system to stop your car. The braking system usually has calipers that force the brake pads towards the rotors, which causes the wheels to slow and stop.

In general, your brake pads will last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, and then they must be replaced. How long they last depends on several factors. If you drive a lot in stop and go city traffic, you are doing a lot of braking and that will wear out your brake pads more quickly. While your brake pads will have to be replaced, your brake rotors might not need to. They may last the life of your car, especially if you get your brake pads checked often for wear. Rotors can be resurfaced if they warp, which extends their life, but it may result in some loss of braking power. The key with rotors is to get your brake pads replaced, so that the rotors don’t get warped, and they may last as long as you drive your car.

If you take good care of your braking system, it will be there for you when you need to brake quickly the next time someone pulls out of a parking lot right in front of you.

If you are looking for a great place to get your car serviced, be sure and give Car Care Connection a call at 941-924-6199 or come by and see us at 6503 Gateway Avenue in Sarasota.