Q: How long should my brakes last?
A: Despite what well-meaning friends may tell you, brake wear is unique to every driver depending on a few factors:
- Your driving habits
- The condition of your overall braking system
- The quality and composition of your brake components
Brakes wear a little every time they are applied, so those subjected to stop-and-go traffic, aggressive driving habits and a heavily loaded vehicle will require replacement much sooner than those used in single-passenger, long highway commutes.
It’s a commonly held belief that the signs of brake system issues are readily noticeable to the driver. A pulsing brake pedal, a high-pitched squeal or, worse yet, harsh grinding sounds are certainly indicators that your brake system requires maintenance – but by the time you experience any of these conditions, it may be too late for minor repairs. Regular inspection and maintenance by your Mopar® service experts can resolve discrete issues within your braking system (dragging, seized calipers, worn pads, etc.) before they lead to larger issues – impacting both the safety of your vehicle and the significance of the repair.
Softer pads (organic) offer better stopping power but at the expense of wear; ceramic pads, on the other hand, have a much longer lifespan but give up a little stopping power. Economical brake components typically have a shorter life span than high-quality products designed specifically for your vehicle. Ask your Mopar® service expert about the options and which brakes are right for you.