Brakes FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

Brakes work on the principle of friction, converting the kinetic energy of a moving vehicle into heat energy to slow it down or bring it to a stop. As you might imagine, the energy required to stop a 3,000-pound vehicle is substantial. (How does Fred Flintstone still have feet?)

In most cars, the brake system consists of four main parts: brake pads, brake rotors (or discs), brake calipers, and a hydraulic system. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure is generated, which forces the brake pads to squeeze against the rotating brake rotor, creating friction and causing the vehicle to decelerate or stop. It’s basically automotive magic.

We know you have questions about brake service—that’s why you’re here, right?—and we’re happy to provide you with some answers. Read through our comprehensive guide on brakes below.

How long do brake pads last?

Numerous factors determine brake pad lifespan. How often you should replace brake pads will depend on your driving habits, the type of brake pads, and the driving conditions. As a general guideline, however, you should expect good brake pads to last between 50,000 to 70,000 miles, while cheap brake pads may only get 30,000 miles before they need to be replaced.

Again, when it comes to brake pad life, your mileage may vary (pun intended). It’s essential to have an auto service center near you frequently inspect your brake pads for wear. A brake test should be performed during every oil change, which occurs after 5,000-10,000 miles, typically. You should also listen for any unusual noises, as most brake pads are equipped with wear indicators that emit a high-pitched squealing sound when it’s time to replace brake pads.

How much does it cost to replace brake pads?

Like brake pad life, the cost to replace brake pads is not set in stone. Pricing for new brakes will depend on your vehicle’s make and model, product availability, brake pad type and quality (OEM parts are better than aftermarket), labor and location. Standard brake pad cost, excluding labor, will range from $100 to $500 per axle, while luxury car brakes may be priced even higher than that due to their specialized design and performance-oriented materials.

Moral of the story? Always get an estimate from various brake shops near you to get an accurate idea of the cost to replace your brakes.

How do I know if my brake pads are worn out?

When brake pads are at the end of their life, they scream it from the mountaintops. The first signs of worn brake pads may be more subtle to newbie drivers, but they quickly become obvious. Here’s what to look and listen for:

• Squealing or Screeching Noise: High-pitched squealing or screeching sounds when applying the brakes can be a sign that the brake pads have worn down to their wear indicators. These indicators are designed to emit noise as a warning that you need brake pad replacement ASAP.
• Reduced Braking Performance: If you notice that your vehicle takes longer to come to a complete stop or requires more pressure on the brake pedal, it may indicate worn-out brake pads.
• Longer Stopping Distances: If you observe that your vehicle’s stopping distances have increased, it could be a sign of worn brake pads. This means it takes more time and distance to bring the vehicle to a stop, which can be dangerous, especially in emergency situations. Rear-ending other cars is not uncommon if your brakes aren’t working as intended!
• Vibration or Pulsation: Any pulsating sensations or vibrations through the brake pedal when applying the brakes might suggest uneven wear of the brake pads. This could be due to worn-out pads or issues with the brake rotors.
• Dashboard Warning: Some vehicles are equipped with a brake pad wear sensor that triggers a warning light on the dashboard when the brake pads are due for replacement. If you see this indicator, it’s time to have your brake pads inspected.
• Visible Thickness: Most brake pads have a small window or wear indicator that allows you to visually check the pad thickness. If the pad material is near or below the indicator, get to your brake shop for new ones.

Remember, if you notice any of these signs or have concerns about your brake pads, it’s absolutely critical to have a professional auto service technician inspect and replace them as necessary.

Can I change brake pads myself?

Although a DIY brake pad replacement job is possible, changing brake pads at home safely does require a competent set of hands and the right tools. If that doesn’t sound like you, you should bring your vehicle in for professional brake service.

How long do brake rotors last?

Brake rotors are flat, metal discs that brake pads clamp onto. The dynamic duo creates friction to slow down the vehicle. Like pads, brake rotor lifespan will depend on everything from driving habits and vehicle weight to the type of brake pads used and frequency of maintenance. On average, brake rotors can last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, though it’s not unheard of for quality rotors to go for 100,000 miles.

What are the signs of a brake rotor problem?

Many brake rotor issues will mimic worn brake pad signs, though there are a few symptoms that are exclusive to worn or warped brake rotors. Here are a few of the telltale signs of warped brake rotors:

• Grinding Noise: A grinding noise when braking indicates that the brake pads have worn out completely and the metal backing is rubbing against the brake rotor. This is a severe issue that requires immediate attention, as every mile driven with metal-on-metal friction increases the odds of your brake rotors becoming warped—which will cost you hundreds or thousands of dollars in repairs.
• Pulsating or Vibrating Steering Wheel: When you hit the brakes, your steering wheel shouldn’t feel like you’re operating a weedwhacker. If it does, your brake pads have worn down entirely or your brake rotors are warped.
• Burning Smell: The smell of burnt metal is not a pleasant aroma. If you get a whiff of it when driving, especially after a particularly aggressive stop, the surface of your brake disc is probably overheating. When they begin to overheat, they begin to warp; when they begin to warp, repair costs blast off into the stratosphere.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: When braking, does your vehicle pull to one side consistently? If so, that’s a clear sign that one of your brake rotors is uneven. (This is different than if your vehicle always pulls to one side when driving, which is a sign you need wheel alignment and/or tire balancing.)

How much does it cost to replace brake rotors?

New brake rotors will usually cost more than brake pads—they also last longer—which means you should replace brake pads before they wear down enough to damage rotor surfaces. The price to change brake rotors can range from several hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars per axle; those costs will increase if you require performance brakes or rotors for a specific make and model.

The importance of regular brake rotor inspections and new brake pads cannot be overstated. If the rotors become heavily worn, scored, or warped, repair costs will quickly skyrocket. Once brake rotors get to the point of no return, they can ruin brake pads, calipers, brake lines, axles and even wheels—and we haven’t even gone into all the safety concerns related to broken brake rotors.

Simply put: Get to your brake shop if you hear grinding sounds!

Can I resurface my brake rotors instead of replacing them?

Turning, machining or resurfacing brake rotors involves removing a thin layer of material from the rotor’s surface to create a fresh, even surface for the new brake pads to contact. This process can help increase brake rotor longevity if it’s done properly and before significant rotor damage has occurred.

However, not all rotors can be resurfaced. If the rotors are too thin or have too many imperfections (scratches and gouges, for example), then you should opt for full rotor replacement. The increased cost of replacing rotors vs. rotor resurfacing is nominal, and you’ll get more life out of new rotors, which makes it a better decision 99 out of 100 times.

How do I know if my brake calipers are bad?

Brake calipers are responsible for applying pressure to the brake pads, which then squeeze against the rotor to slow down or stop the vehicle. If your brake calipers are malfunctioning or faulty, there are a few signs to look out for:

• One common symptom is uneven braking, where the vehicle may pull to one side when you apply the brakes.
• You might also notice a burning smell coming from the wheels, which could indicate caliper sticking or excessive heat buildup. (This is oftentimes related to worn brake rotors.)
• Another sign is brake drag, where the brakes don’t fully release after braking, causing increased fuel consumption or a noticeable decrease in performance.

What does brake fluid do?

Brake fluid is a specially formulated hydraulic fluid that transfers brake pedal pressure to the brake components themselves, allowing them to function as intended. If brake fluid is too low or too dirty, there won’t be enough lubrication to keep your brake system operating properly, which leads to faster brake component degradation and perhaps damage to other pertinent parts.

How often should you change brake fluid? Brake fluid is designed to operate at an extremely high temperature since it deals with excessive heat caused by friction. Because of its nature to absorb moisture from the air, brake fluid can become diluted, which will decrease its boiling point and ability to protect important brake system components. Therefore, the advised brake fluid replacement interval is somewhere between 2-4 years, though it’s best to review your owner’s manual for recommended service and brake fluid flush frequency.

What are the signs of brake fluid leak?

Any time your car is leaking fluid, you should be concerned. This is especially true of brake fluid (see above). Identifying the type of fluid—engine oil, coolant or brake fluid, for example—is all about color.

• Brake fluid: Pale yellow or brown
• Coolant: Green, orange, pink or blue
• Engine oil: Light brown to black
• Power steering fluid: Clear, red or brown
• Transmission fluid: Red or brown
• Water condensation: Clear

Luckily, brake fluid is easy to identify because it’s typically a light or translucent yellow. Leaking brake fluid will also pool around the brake lines—either at the master cylinder or near the brake rotors and wheels—so you won’t likely confuse it with motor oil.

How can I make my brakes last longer?

No one wants to deal with buying new brakes—they’re not the sexiest automotive part. You can increase brake lifespan by following these tips:

1. Avoid aggressive driving: Excessive speeding, abrupt acceleration, and hard braking can put unnecessary stress on your brakes. Practice smooth and gradual braking whenever possible. Anticipate traffic conditions to reduce the need for sudden stops or aggressive braking.
2. Maintain a safe following distance: Keeping a safe distance from the vehicle ahead allows you to anticipate traffic changes and reduce the need for sudden and aggressive braking. This not only helps protect your brakes but also enhances overall road safety.
3. Minimize unnecessary braking: Pay attention to the traffic flow ahead and try to maintain a steady pace. By allowing the vehicle to coast or decelerate naturally when safe, you can reduce the frequency of brake usage, putting less strain on the brake components.
4. Avoid riding the brakes: Some drivers tend to keep their foot on the brake pedal lightly, causing the brakes to generate unnecessary friction and heat. Only use the brakes when needed, and release the pedal completely to allow the brakes to cool down and reduce wear.
5. Brake in advance: When approaching a stop sign, traffic light, or any other situation requiring braking, try to start braking earlier and gradually. This allows the vehicle to decelerate more smoothly, reducing the strain on the brakes.
6. Be mindful of brake usage on downhill slopes: When descending steep hills, excessive and prolonged braking can cause the brakes to overheat. Engage engine braking techniques by shifting to lower gears (if applicable) or using the appropriate downhill mode, if available in your vehicle.
7. Use high-quality brake components: When it comes time to replace brake pads, rotors, or any other brake components, choose high-quality, OEM brakes. Quality components can provide better performance, durability, and longevity—as well as a better warranty.

The best way to keep your brakes lasting is to get them inspected and serviced by professionals at regular intervals. Don’t wait until you see a puddle, hear a squeak or smell burning metal! Once you get to that point, the odds are it’s too late. Be proactive and keep your car’s resale value high!

Need BMW 328i brake pads or a comprehensive brake inspection in Miami? Visit Braman BMW and allow our trained technicians to get their hands dirty. Schedule a brake job appointment online or contact us at (786) 577-5220 to speak with a member of our team.