Car Brakes Lifespan: How Long Do Brakes Last?

October 15, 2021

“How long do brakes last” is one of the most common questions we get. And while there is no one answer because it depends on your vehicle, your driving style, and how often you use the car, there are general facts and recommendations we can share! 

Keep in mind that different parts in your braking system wear at different intervals e.g. your rotors will likely last longer than your brake pads. And your rear rotors will last longer than your front rotors. 

Car Brakes Lifespan

Average car brakes lifespan is around the 40,000 mile range. If you are a very careful driver, it can be twice that. If you drive aggressively and your brakes experience a lot of heat, you will definitely need new brakes sooner. Your car brakes include vital parts like brake pads, brake rotors, calipers, and more. Because your rotors are made of steel, they will last longer than brake pads that are doing all the gripping work to stop your vehicle.

Car Brake Pad Lifespan

Your brake pads should be replaced every 30,000-50,000 mile mark. To keep wear at a minimum, some dealers recommend new pads every 10,000-20,000 miles but it’s definitely not necessary and can rack up a lot in cost. 

If you are burning through brake pads quickly, you might consider replacing your OEM brake pads with a different material for more superior performance. For example, ceramic brake pads are great for city driving but semi-metallic brake pads are better for the race track and aggressive conditions. 

Car Brake Rotor Lifespan

To keep your brakes in peak health, a rotor replacement is recommended every 50,000-70,000 miles. However, they are usually replaced only every 2nd or 3rd time you get new brake pads. Plus, rotors can be resurfaced and work again for many miles before you need a full new set. Because your front brakes generate 60-90% of braking power, your front rotors and brake pads will have to be replaced more often than your rear rotors. 
How often to replace brakes?

Listen to your car! A lot of brake pads are equipped with an indicator that creates a screeching sound against your rotor, without harming it, when it’s time to get new pads.

To summarize, replace your brake pads, especially the front ones, every 40,000 miles on average. Replace your rotors, especially the front ones, every 60,000 miles on average. If you hear any noise like squealing coming from your brakes or if your car is vibrating when you are braking, bring it into the mechanic shop right away because you probably need new brakes.