How Much to Replace Brake Pads

Keeping your brakes in top condition is essential for your safety on the road as well as your driving experience. Replacing your car’s brake pads is one of many brake services that’ll help your car stop quickly when it matters most. You might be wondering, “How much does it cost to replace brake pads?” The service experts at Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Inc. have created the following guide for your reference! Find out how much to replace brake pads along with signs it’s time for a brake pad change. 

What’s the Average Cost to Replace Brake Pads?

The cost of a brake pad replacement varies, depending on the type of car. The average brake pad replacement cost is $150 per axle. However, the price range is about $100 to $300 per axle. Brake pads on the less expensive side of the spectrum are made from organic materials, while higher-priced composite brake pads are made from more rugged materials like metal. Although more expensive, these composite brake pads offer greater heat resistance and less brake fade with routine use. 

Price also varies by dealership and location. Call us at (256) 507-9952 for a quote on a brake pad replacement for your vehicle in Cullman! 

Brakes vs. Brake Pads: What’s the Difference? 

“Brakes” and “brake pads” are often used interchangeably. However, there’s a clear difference between the two:

• Brakes are the brake system as a whole, including the brake pads, rotors, discs, calipers, master cylinder, lines, and, if you drive an older vehicle, brake drums. 
• Brake pads are an important part of the brake system and apply pressure to the brake rotors or discs to bring the vehicle to a stop. 

How Long Do Brake Pads Last?

The average lifespan for brake pads is about 40,000 to 50,000 miles. Your driving habits can lengthen or shorten that lifespan. For example, if you frequently hit the brakes suddenly, especially with a trailer in tow, you’re putting added strain on the brake pads. If you coast to a stop as often as you can and avoid slamming on the brakes, it’s likely that your car’s brake pads will last much longer. 

Signs Your Car Needs its Brake Pads Replaced 

When your car needs its brake pads replaced in Decatur, you’ll likely notice the red flags straight away. If you notice any of the following indicators, schedule a service appointmentat Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Inc. to get your car’s brake pads changed: 

• The brakes are making a squealing or squeaking sound
• The indicator light turns on 
• You hear a grinding metal sound 
• The brake pedal vibrates 
• The brake pads are less than ¼ of an inch thick 

Schedule a Brake Pad Replacement at Mitch Smith Chevrolet, Inc. 

Have you noticed a strange squeaking sound when you brake or is the brake light illuminated on your dash? Your brake pads may be the cause. Contact us with any questions about our brake services or how to use our Chevrolet service coupons. We’re just a short drive from Hanceville and Hartselle, so come and see us!