Why Are My Brake Pads Wearing Out So Fast?

Do you sometimes ask yourself why your brake pads wear out quicker than they should? Brake pads are an important part of a car’s braking system, and they are responsible for providing the friction that is needed to stop the vehicle. When you step on the brake pedal, the brake pads grip the brake rotors in order to generate enough friction to stop the car. It is normal for the brake pads to wear off gradually due to friction. But if you observe that your brake pads are wearing out much faster than they should, then there may be some problems that you should look into.

Possible Reasons Why Brake Pads Wear Out Quickly

• Driving Habits: When it comes to the wear and tear of your brake pads, the way you drive can determine how fast it will wear. If you engage in regular hard braking, abrupt halts, and vigorous acceleration, your brake pads will wear out much faster. To increase the durability of brake pads, it is advisable to predict when the car has to be stopped and decelerate gently without stepping on the brake suddenly.
• Driving Conditions: Driving in certain conditions can also lead to faster wear of brake pads as well as the other components of the brake system. For example, driving in the city, with lots of starts and stops will wear out your brakes more than cruising on the highway. Also, driving in areas that are hilly or mountainous will mean that the car is constantly braking which also shortens the lifespan of the pads.
• Quality of Brake Pads: It is important to note that the life expectancy of brake pads depends on the kind of brake pads you are using. Generally, brake pads manufactured using higher-quality materials will last longer than those that are made from low-quality materials. If you are going to change the brake pad then you should go for the quality ones to get better performance and durability.
• Weight: The load that your car carries also determines the rate at which your brake pads will wear out. Vehicles with higher mass need larger force to be applied to the brake pedal, and this results in more wear and tear on the brake pads. You may also find that your brake pads wear out more quickly if you often transport heavy items or pull bigger vehicles.
• Brake System Issues: Sometimes, the issue is not with the brake pads but with other parts of the brake system. Problems such as improperly installed brake calipers, calipers that stick to the brake disc, or damaged rotors can lead to uneven wear of brake pads. Some of these issues can be solved by performing routine maintenance and inspection to avoid situations that cause early wear of the brake pads.

How to Get More Life Out Of Your Brake Pads

• Adopt Gentle Braking: As mentioned earlier, one of the ways that you can ensure that your brake pads last for a long time is by adopting gentle braking habits. Avoid relying on sudden and forceful braking to halt the car and try to predict when you will need to stop so you can start decelerating early.
• Safe Following Distance: Driving at a safe distance behind the vehicle in front of you will also minimize the need for constant braking. This practice helps in increasing the durability of the brake pads and also in improving safety on the roads.
• Regular Maintenance: Maintenance should be done often to ensure that the brake system is in good state. It is recommended to take your car for brake checks at a trusted mechanic shop.

Let Us Help You Service Your Brake System

The braking system of your vehicle is one of the most important parts that we at Germany’s Best Inc. would like to remind you to always check as it is essential for your safety and convenience. If you have a feeling that your brake pads are depleting much earlier than they should and you are in Oakland, CA, or any of the nearby cities, then do not hesitate to come to us. We have skilled technicians who can identify the problem, advise on the right and durable spare parts, and service your brakes to their highest potential. Get in touch with us either on our website or through a phone call to book an appointment.