How Long Do Brake Pads Last?

“How long do brake pads last?” It is among the most commonly asked questions we receive at the Mazda of Claremont service center. While most pads last between 20,000 and 75,000 miles, there are several factors that account for this wide range. In this guide for San Dimas-area drivers, learn more about these factors and the extent of brake pad life you can expect.

What Causes Brake Pad Wear? 

Brake pads gradually wear out over time. When you push the brake pedal, the pads rub against the brake rotors to create the friction necessary to slow the vehicle or bring it to a stop on Rancho Cucamonga roads. This friction, combined with the heat it generates, wears down the pads.

The speed at which your brake pads wear out can be increased by certain factors, including:

• Driving/braking habits, like regular driving in stop-and-go traffic or frequent hard stops
• Type of brake pad; ceramic pads are more durable and last longer than other types
• Manual vs. automatic transmission, with brake pads on automatic transmission vehicles having a shorter average lifespan
• Local driving environment, such as congested freeways, which is always a concern in the Upland area
• Condition of other brake parts, like corroded rotors or misaligned calipers

How Long Should Brake Pads Last?

Another factor that affects how long brake pads last is your specific vehicle make and model, as each vehicle type has its own burn-off rate. Considering this and the other conditions discussed above, brake pads last, on average, 20,000 to 75,000 miles, with many vehicles falling somewhere in the middle of this range.

How Long Do Ceramic Brake Pads Last?

High-performance and luxury vehicles often have brake pads made of ceramic, the strongest and longest-lasting pad material on the market. How long do brake pads last when they’re made of ceramic? You can expect them to stay in reliable shape for up to 75,000 miles.

Schedule a Brake Pad Replacement at Mazda of Claremont

Replacing your brake pads is a crucial part of routine auto maintenance. At Mazda of Claremont, we can handle all your vehicle service needs, from pad replacements and oil changes to battery checks and tire rotations. Explore more service tips or schedule a brake pad replacement in Claremont today.