Honda Brake Service Resources:

How to Tell That You Have Brake Problems

Luckily, determining if you have problems with your braking system is fairly easy. There are several signs to take note of while you're out driving that will indicate a possible issue with your brakes. The most obvious sign is your brake system warning light on your dashboard. When this light flashes, it usually means that your system is low on brake fluid or you've left your parking brake on. If it's on for another reason, don't hesitate to have the system checked.

Noise is usually a great indicator of braking issues because the sound is undeniable. If you hear any grinding, squeaking, or even squealing while you're applying brake pressure, it's usually a sign that your brake pads are starting to become worn out. You should seek out a brake pad replacement, or your rotors could be damaged; that repair is a costly one.

When you're driving, and you apply pressure to the brakes, but the pedal feels a little soft, there may be an issue with your braking system. This tends to occur when air or moisture gets into your braking system. If this is the case, you'll need to have your brakes bled. This can be a strenuous process, so it's best left to the trained professionals.

How Long Do Brake Rotors and Pads Last?

The brake rotors and brake pads in your model are largely responsible for stopping your vehicle quickly and assuredly. How long do these two important pieces typically last? For pads, they can hold up anywhere from 30,000 miles to as long as 70,000 miles. Rotors are durable as well, usually making it close to 70,000 miles before they need to be swapped out.

The difference between 30,000 miles and 70,000 miles is quite large, though. So, what factors determine the lifespan of your brake pads and rotors? A few of the most prominent factors include the type of driving you do each day, the type of model you drive, and the weather your vehicle is exposed to.

Basically, it all comes down to how much strain you're placing on your brakes. If you're the type of person who enjoys pushing your model around a back road, the pads and rotors may wear down more quickly due to frequent stops from high speeds. If you drive in bumper-to-bumper traffic each day, this can also wear on your brakes. On the flip side, if you aren't a fast driver and you don't experience much traffic on your daily commute, you'll be able to get closer to 70,000 miles from your pads and rotors.

The next factor is the type of model you drive. Small, lightweight cars are unlikely to wear out important brake components quickly. If you have a large SUV, though, or a full-size truck, the pads and rotors are going to be worked more thoroughly. This is especially true if you do a lot of towing. When you have a trailer attached to the rear, the brakes are tasked with stopping large amounts of weight. Over time, all that weight will wear down the pads and rotors.

Finally, inclement weather is going to factor in as well, the same way it does for many performance parts beyond just the brakes and rotors. If you keep your car in a garage, weather is no big thing. If you street park or have your model outside in your driveway, though, long winters or scorching summers can begin to diminish the effectiveness of your brakes. Because most brakes are composed of steel, the metal reacts with the outside weather, which in the long-term can diminish performance and reliability.

There are ways to protect your brakes from wear and tear, too. If you reach out to our staff, we'll be happy to go over options with you. When you bring your vehicle into our shop regularly, we'll also be able to inspect the vehicle over time and determine exactly when the wear and tear process begins.