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How Often Does Your Vehicle Need Brake Maintenance?
When you hear a whistling or screeching noise coming from your car’s brakes, it's a clear signal that your brake pads are worn down and may need immediate attention. This kind of wear can affect more than just the pads—it can also damage the calipers, rotors, and even compromise your safety on the road. So, what should you do next?
**Factors That Affect Brake Wear**
Several elements contribute to how quickly your brakes wear out:
- **Driving style**: Aggressive driving, such as sudden stops and heavy braking, puts extra stress on your brake system. Smooth, controlled driving helps extend the life of your brakes.
- **City vs. highway driving**: Frequent stop-and-go traffic in urban areas increases brake usage. If you live in a hilly area, you’ll likely use your brakes more often than someone in a flat region.
- **Brake pad material**: Harder compounds, commonly found in performance vehicles, last longer but require heat to work effectively. Softer materials are better suited for city driving with frequent low-speed stops.
- **Heat buildup**: Excessive heat can cause brake pad material to melt onto the rotors, reducing their effectiveness and causing premature wear.
- **Material quality**: High-performance materials like carbon-ceramic brakes offer a longer lifespan compared to traditional steel or metal components.
**Mileage and Maintenance**
Unlike other maintenance tasks, there’s no strict schedule for when your brakes need replacing. However, it's a good idea to have them inspected during routine services like oil changes or tire rotations—typically every six months. On average, most drivers replace their brakes every 50,000 miles, but this can vary widely depending on driving conditions. In a busy city with steep hills, you might need new brakes as early as 25,000 miles, while a smooth countryside driver could go up to 70,000 miles before needing replacement.
**Signs You Need Brake Repair**
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your brakes checked:
- **Squealing, scraping, or whistling sounds**: These noises often come from the metal wear indicators on your brake pads. If ignored, they can lead to more serious issues, like a vibrating steering wheel or a pulsating feel when braking.
- **Vibrations when braking**: This usually means your rotors are warped. A mechanic can either resurface them or replace them if needed.
- **Grinding noises**: A grinding sound is a serious sign that your brake pads are completely worn away, and your caliper may be rubbing against the rotor.
- **Brake warning light**: If the brake light stays on longer than usual, it could mean low fluid levels, a leak, or an issue with the master cylinder.
If you're experiencing any of these signs or simply want to ensure your brakes are in top condition, DaSilva’s Auto Body offers reliable and affordable brake inspections and repairs. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule an appointment today at our Naugatuck location and keep your vehicle safe on the road.