Brake Pad Replacement

Squealing can often be a indicator that your brake pads are getting low. It isn’t something to panic about immediately, but to be mindful of and address soon. Grinding is a bigger deal because it typically indicates that your pads have worn down to the metal and could be damaging your rotors. If you hear grinding, it’s best to get it looked at straight away.

Not for long. Worn brake pads means longer and more unpredictable stopping distances. A soft or spongey pedal can be a sign of air or moisture in your brake line, which can affect how quickly and safely you can stop. Either condition can make braking unpredictable and thus unsafe. If something feels strange with your brakes, it’s best to have a professional inspect them.

While it’s not required, at VIP we highly recommend changing pads and rotors at the same time because of the sometimes imperceptible differences or grooves in the rotor, which will actually wear your brake pads faster. We also recommend changing rotors if they’re thin, warped, or damaged. We’ll inspect your rotors every time so that you’ll know exactly what’s needed.

It mostly comes down to preferences about performance, noise, cost, and longevity:Ceramic pads are quieter, produce less brake dust, and tend to last longer, making them a popular choice for daily drivers. They also tend to be the more expensive choice.Semi-metallic pads offer strong stopping power and handle heat well, making them a good fit for more demanding driving, though they can be a bit noisier and harder on rotors. They tend to be mid-range cost wise.Organic pads are softer and quieter, but typically wear down faster and aren’t ideal for heavy-duty use. They’re often the least expensive option.The right choice really depends on how you drive and what you need from your vehicle. If you’re not sure, we’re happy to walk you through it and recommend what makes sense for you.

Signs that your brakes need to be replaced include squealing or squeaking when you brake, grinding sounds (which usually means it’s time to act fast as this is an indication your brake pads are down to metal on metal), your brake pedal feels soft or spongey, your car is pulling to one side when braking, or you feel a vibration through the pedal. If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s worth getting your brakes checked. Remember that, at VIP, we offer free brake checks.

The cost per axel for brake replacement varies depending on your vehicle and the type of brake system you have. We have a great blog post that goes into this in great detail: https://www.vipauto.com/brake-job-cost/

Most brake pads last somwhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, but it really depends on driving habits. City driving with lots of stop-and-go can wear down pads much more quickly than highway miles. VIP offers warranties on brake work in case they wear down faster than expected, and if you’re ever concerned you can visit your local VIP for a free brake check.