The brakes on your Subaru should always work properly, especially considering they're the most important safety feature at your disposal. The brake pads are part of the overall advanced braking system and are what usually have to be replaced the most.

Below, our team at Ira Subaru will explain exactly when to change your brake pads. Read through our informative guide and contact us if you need service near Wakefield, Reading, and Danvers, MA!

Brake Pad Lifespan

You'll generally have to change your brake pads between every 30,000 and 35,000 miles. However, that's not a definite number as your vehicle and driving habits can affect that figure. For instance, driving frequently in stop-and-go city traffic will result in you using your brakes a lot. Plus, riding your brakes, or lightly pressing on them without actually stopping, will cause the brake pads to wear down faster. 

When New Brake Pads Are Needed

Brake pads will eventually wear down simply from everyday use. You'll want to get them replaced before they get too thin. Once that happens, you run the risk of getting into an accident.

There are some warning signs that can help determine when you need to get your brake pads changed. These include:

·     Squeaking or squealing noises: Many brake pads have built-in wear indicators. If you hear a squeaking or squealing noise, the brake pads have gotten so thin that the indicator is starting to scrape against the brake rotor.

·     Brakes are slow to respond: By applying the brakes over a long distance without ever coming to a full stop, you're forcing the brake pads to contact the rotors for a long period, causing them both to heat up. Over time, their ability to generate friction is reduced, resulting in a delayed response from your brakes.

·     Vehicle pulls to one side: The brake pads don't wear down at the same rate. When one side gets thinner than the other, your car may pull to the left or right whenever you apply the brakes.

·     Brake pad thickness: To check brake pad thickness, simply look through the wheel spokes. You'll be able to see the brake pad pressed against the rotor. The pads should be at least one quarter-inch thick. Any thinner than that and they'll need to be replaced as soon as possible.

Changing the Brake Pads

If your Subaru is experiencing any of the above warning signs, the brake pads will have to be changed right away.

Just bring your car to our state-of-the-art service center and our certified technicians will take care of it. They have years of experience replacing brake pads; because of this, they can handle the job quickly and efficiently. Plus, they'll replace them with high-quality, genuine parts. This way, your car will continue to keep you safe for many more years and miles.

Schedule Brake Service Today

Once your brakes exhibit signs of distress or delay, schedule service at Ira Subaru right away. Our mission is to always make sure your car performs well on the streets of Wakefield, Reading, and Danvers.

Don't wait-schedule brake service with us today