Have a feeling your brake pads need to be changed soon? Check out this blog for more information about how long brake pads last in Australia to learn how they work and signs to look out for.
Although your mechanic will know best, it’s a good idea to learn about brake pads so you know how to look after your brakes. This can save you money in the long run and give you confidence that your brake pads are in a healthy condition. From a vibrating steering wheel to your vehicle pulling to one side when braking, here are five things to know about brake pads in Australia.
Photo by Kentaro Toma on Unsplash.
Other car maintenance articles you may be interested in:
- How much is a car service in Australia?
- Timing belt Replacement Cost
- How to Prepare for a Road Trip in Australia
5 Things to Know About Brake Pads in Australia
1. What are brake pads?
Brake pads are made of a backing plate and friction material, taking on the pressure and heat involved with braking a vehicle. When the pad grips the rotor to slow down the car, the pad eventually wears down, which is why brake pads need changing every so often.
2. How do brakes work?
When you press down on the brake pedal, the force is intensified by mechanical leverage and the brake booster. Then, a piston moves into the cylinder and squeezes hydraulic fluid out and around the entire braking system, which includes brake lines and hoses. This pressure is spread equally to all four brakes, creating friction between brake pads and rotors, which is what slows or stops your vehicle.
3. How long do brake pads last?
In general, brake pads should be changed every 75,000 kilometres, but sometimes they may need to be changed after 25,000 or 40,000 depending on your car and environment. With Australia being rather hot and dusty, brake pads can be impacted. So, it’s important to invest in suitable brake pads and ask your mechanic for their opinion if you need climate-specific brake pads.
4. Signs you may need to change your brake pads.
If you think it may be time to change your brake pads, here are some common signs it’s time to take your car into the mechanic:
- Steering wheel or brake pedal vibrate when slowing down.
- Brake pedal is lower than usual.
- Brake warning light is on.
- Brake pads look worn or too thin.
- Vehicle pulls to one side when using brakes.
- Squeaking, squealing, screeching, grinding or clicking noise when you press your foot down on the brake.
As brakes heat up, they may make some noise, but you’ll know what’s normal for your car.
*Above information is from Fiix and SuperCheap Auto.
5. How to take care of your brake pads.
Taking care of your brake pads can increase their longevity and keep your brakes in good condition. By following these steps, you can regularly maintenance your vehicle and potentially save money in the long run.
- Monitor brake fluid levels: You should check your brake fluid levels every three months and replace it either every two years or every 7,000km.
- Change brake discs at similar intervals to brake fluid. Depending on the environment you’re in, your car and how you drive, your brake discs may need to be changed more regularly.
- Get your brake lines, pads and rotors inspected regularly. If the brake is worn down it’s time to replace the brake pad to ensure your brakes are roadworthy and your vehicle is safe to drive.
*Above information from Fred’s Auto Repair.
Thinking it’s time to change your brake pads? You can find your local mechanic on Localsearch.com.au!
More from Chloe 
