last updated 25 Apr 2024
Brake Pad Life:
Brake pads typically wear out between 25,000 and 65,000 miles, but the exact number depends on a variety of factors, including driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and vehicle weight. In urban areas, brake pads and shoes are generally considered good for 30,000–35,000 miles, while on highways with light traffic, they may last 80,000 miles or more.
New brake pads are typically 3/8 to 1/2 inch thick, or 10 to 12 millimeters, depending on the vehicle. Front brake pads are usually thicker than rear pads because they do most of the braking.
So if they wear 1.5 mm for every 10,000 miles that would would 7.5 mm in 50,000 miles leaving 2.5 mm on a 10 mm new pad.
It depends on the type of pad. Organic (non-metallic (NAO) [Most OEM pads]- 20,000; semi-metalic - 30,000-60,000; or Ceramic 70,000.
See Brake Pads
How Long Do Brake Pads Last? | Firestone
Most modern brakes make a squealing, screeching or whining noise when then need to be replaced. This sound is caused by a small metal attachment on the brake pad backing plate for just this purpose.
Costs:
How Much to Replace Brakes | AAA
"Just pads, or more?: Sometimes when a vehicle needs new brake pads, it needs new rotors as well. If your vehicle does indeed need both of these replacements, it will be $250-$500 per axle — or $500-$1,000 for the entire vehicle - to replace both the brake pads and rotors."
This was the highest estimate I saw.It may be a couple of years old.
Note: My brake job at AAA in Davis cost $1,366.
AAA said their price was higher because they use Akebonon ceramic pads which are more expensive, but at $240 for front and back it's not that much different from standard pads at $150-$200. (actually that is)
Auto Zone says "A complete brake repair — one that includes pads, rotor and caliper replacement — typically averages between $300 and $800."
KellyBlue Book (may be 2022 ) says "$250-$400 per axle on average"
Subaru Brake Repair Prices | Kelly Blue Book
Maita Subaru quoted $489 each for front and back axles today.
See my brake job story.
New pad break in procedure.
To ensure best performance and maximum rotor and pad life, it's important to break in your newly installed pads and rotors. Ideally, this would be done on a deserted road, with multiple stops from 35 MPH to 5 MPH in succession two or three times, with a cool down period afterwards - normally a drive home. It's possible to do this during normal everyday driving as well for the first few days, increase your following distance so that any braking done can be smoothly and gradually, decreasing pedal pressure as the car slows to a smooth stop. Avoid panic stops as much as possible, but this is a good rule in general.
See also: Auto Service Reviews in Davis
Cost Inflation:
I checked some inflation numbers.
In 2022, the cost of parts from automakers rose 10%, and aftermarket parts rose 17%.
As of January 2023, CPI of car parts had risen a bit more than 8% vs the previous January.
Lessons:
Unless you hear strange noises when hitting the brakes or they tell you the pads are warn do 1 mm thickness or less, don't panic and take some time. You should have about 3,000 miles left
However some places tell you to start making plans to replace them when they get to 3 mm.
Ask to get the old pads back when you schedule the job. The's no way to tell you are getting your pads back, since there is no label on the pads, but it lets them know you will be checking.Links:
Auto Service Reviews in Davis
ceramic brake pads
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