How Often Should You Get New Brake Pads?

Brake pads clamp the rotors that slow your Ford and bring it to a stop. Each time you press the brake pedal, your pads wear down a little further. It’s important to visit your local Ford dealer for new pads in a timely manner before your braking system starts to lose function. Let’s take a look at how often your pads will usually need to be replaced.

Every 30,000 to 70,000 Miles

As a Ford driver, it’s generally recommended that you should replace your pads every 30,000 to 70,000 miles. But be sure to check your vehicle’s user manual to see the interval suggested for your particular model.

Rougher Driving Conditions 

The more they’re used, the faster the pads of your braking mechanism wear down. If you find yourself regularly driving in conditions that require constant braking, then you’ll need to have your pads replaced more frequently. Such conditions include mountainous terrain with plenty of sharp turns and downhill stretches, and also heavy stop-and-go traffic, which you often find in a busy urban commute.

Inexpensive Versus Premium Pads

The quality of your pads also makes a big difference in how rapidly they wear down. Premium pads have friction layers that are typically made of ceramic, while lower-quality pads usually have semi-metallic friction layers. But the material used doesn’t determine durability as much as the quality of construction, which you’ll find reflected in the price tag.

With such an outstanding vehicle as a Ford, it’s worth keeping every component top-notch in quality. This is especially true with something as vital to your safety as the pads in your braking mechanism. Premium pads may cost more, but they last longer too. So in the long run, you’re often saving on the cost of more frequent replacements anyway.

When Your Ford Dealer Suggests New Pads

There’s a wide margin and several years of driving between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. Because of this, you should always keep a close eye on the condition of your pads. The safest way to do this is with regular brake inspection, every six months or so.

During an inspection, the technician will raise your car and remove the wheels, calipers, rotors, and pads. They’ll examine each component carefully and keep you updated on the exact condition of your pads. With regular brake inspections, you’ll know how quickly your pads are wearing down, and you’ll be able to plan ahead for replacements.

At the First Sign of Braking Trouble

Always keep an eye out for signs of problems that might indicate worn-out pads. If you hear a high-pitched squealing or grinding when you brake, then the friction layer of your pads has gotten too thin.

Also, if you ever feel a sponginess to your braking, then your pads or rotors may have become damaged by overheating or too much usage. In either case, have a trusted technician take a look as soon as you can.

For a full brake inspection and prompt pad replacement, visit Bob Maxey Ford. We’re a locally-trusted dealership that takes as much pride in our world-class service as we do in our vehicles.

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