How Much Are Brake Pads

All brake pads begin to wear down overtime and you will need to replace them. Brake pads are an essential part of your vehicle’s functioning braking system. Without functioning brake pads your car isn’t safe to drive. Getting a new brake pad depends on lots of factors, especially your driving pattern.

In this article, we will answer all your questions about brake pads including what you need to replace them, and the cost.

What’s the Average Cost to Replace Brake Pads?

The average cost of a brake pad depends on the type and quality of pad you are purchasing. The amount you spend can even become more if the damage on the pad has graduated to the rotors.

On average, the cost of a brake pad is between $35 and $150 while the cost for labor is between $80 and $120 per axle. So, the total average replacement cost will be between $115 and $300 per axle.

Most cars come with two axles, while larger cars with capacity of carrying more passengers and more wheels can have several axles.

Meanwhile, to replace all four brakes alongside the part and labor cost ranges between $230 and $600.

A majority of the braking load is carried out by the front brake. Since the front brake takes 70% of the workload, they often overheat fast causing them to grind, squeak or groan.

For this reason, they get replaced often. The average cost of replacing the front brake is between $115 and 300$, which is about the cost of replacing the rear brake.

What’s the Difference Between Brakes and Brake Pads?

People are often confused whether the brakes or the brake pads are the same. But they are not, knowing the difference between the brake and brake pads will help you know how the system works.

Brakes entail the overall component that works together to bring your car to a halt when you press the brake pedal. Brake pads are small, flat slabs that are situated somewhere under the dashboard. It’s about a quarter of an inch thick and some meters long. The driver steps on the brake, the pad is pushed against the rotor, and causes friction and resistance that brings the car to a stop.

What’s the Difference Between Brake Pads and Rotors?

The rotor is the metal disc mounted to the axle just behind the wheel. The brake and the rotor work together to bring the car to a stop. The rotor is what the brake clamps down to stop the car from spinning, while bringing it to a stop. Both the brake and the rotor get worn out and when this happens the driver needs to get a brake and rotor replacement.

Factors that Affect Your Brake Pads

Your brakes can be affected by the following factors like:

1. Driving Habits: Your driving habit which includes riding the brakes often and stopping abruptly can cause brake pads to wear out more quickly.

2. Driving Environment: Mountainous, hilly, and stop-and-go traffic where you need more brake power to control speed ultimately affect your brake pads.

3. Materials: The material made of your brake pad matters a great deal. Ceramic brakes tend to be more durable and last longer than the conventional brake.

Brake Rotors and Calipers Condition: The brake pad works in sync with the rotors and caliper. So, if they are not in good condition, it can affect the lifespan of your brake.

Which Brake Pads Are Right for You?

To know the right brake pad for you depends on the type of vehicle you use, the cost and the brak’s durability and performance. To help you make the decision, here are some of the brake pads types.

Ceramic brake pads offer the best braking performance. They are made from a ceramic compound and are best suited for daily driving. However, they often cost a little more than other options. They produce a smooth braking process and do not wear out fast. However, ceramic brake pads wear off faster than metallic brakes.

Semi-metallic brake pads are highly durable and relatively cost-effective. contain between 30-70% metals and are best suited for more aggressive driving. However, they’re a little louder than ceramic pads and they may not stop your vehicle as quickly.

Some brake options you can consider include Carquest, Akebono Pro-Act & Euro Brake Pads, Hawk Performance Brake Pads, TRW Brake Pads, Textar Brake Technology Brake Pads, and StopTech Performance Brake Pads.

Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]

How long does a brake job take?

A brake job takes about 30 minutes to an hour. In some cases, it can be more depending on the vehicle. But for someone with no experience, it can take several hours.

How much does it cost for four brake pads?

All four brake pads cost about 35 to 150 dollars. Labour cost between $80 and $120 per axle.

How often do brake pads need replacement?

Experts advise getting your brake pad replaced after every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. This is the minimum mile to keep wear to the minimum. As for your rotor, it should be replaced between 50,000 to 70,000 miles. Anything higher will be unsafe.

How do I know I need brakes or rotors?

You need a new brake if your car brakes are grinding, squealing or squeaking.

What happens if you don’t replace the brake pads?

If you don’t replace brake pads before when damaged, it can affect other components of the braking system. It will mostly affect the brake disc or drums. It also results in unsafe driving for you and other road users.

Wrap Up!

The prices of a brake pad varies with the manufacturer and vendor. However, when getting a brake pad you must consider the quality, driving pattern, and environment. Cost should be the least consideration because going for low quality brake pads will only require frequent change. That’s because they get worn out on time.

Most modern braking systems are self-adjusting. So they self adjust to ensure the brake pad maintains a constant contact with the rotor when the brake is applied.