On any car, problems may sometimes come from nowhere. Of course, frequent maintenance checks might give drivers a chance to avoid future issues with the car, but daily issues could still happen. One of the many issues might be screeching brakes, and there are ways to prevent this from happening, depending on if your brakes are old or brand-new. Brake squeaking is likely the result of driving conditions or driving habits. Below we’ll give you a breakdown of some frequent causes as to why your brakes are squeaking, how long your brake pads should last, and when you should replace them.
This may shock you, but one of the reasons for brake squealing is that they are simply just too new. Your car’s brakes might need some more miles to break in and get acclimated to your car. In this case, weather conditions may lead to built-up moisture covering your brake pads, and it can require a bit of time to remove that moisture. Also, the way you drive can create some brake squeaking. “Riding” your brakes (keeping your foot on the brakes) or late braking can cause brake squeaking, especially if they’re brand-new. If this is the case, then try giving your brakes a break to help reduce more friction.
Worn-down brakes are typically why you might experience that squeaking as well. Over time, components on any car will likely begin to wear down because of driving habits, moisture, rust, and if it is garaged or not. The easy fix is to just get those brakes replaced with brand-new parts. However, a change in how you drive on the highway could help reduce the screeching before driving them to the shop.
The life of brakes could last a long time, depending on the way drivers treat the brakes. Understanding how you drive is the most important, as it can help drivers know when to change the brakes. Brake pads generally last 25,000 to 65,000 miles, but driving habits have such an important role. Braking hard and riding the brakes (when a foot is always on the brake pedal) places heat and pressure on the brake pads and can lead to shrinking their life. If squeaking begins to occur, you should consider getting them replaced and think about changing your driving habits to extend the brake pad’s lifespan.
Contact us at Round Rock Nissan if you think your brake pads need to be changed. Our team of professionals is ready to take all of the guesswork out of figuring out the specific brake service your car, truck, SUV, or minivan needs. We will happily service your vehicle no matter its make or model. Schedule your brake service appointment today.