The friction layer on a brake pad is made of a compound of ceramic, semi-metallic, or organic materials bonded by resin: designed to generate traction and stopping power. But every time you use a pad, this friction layer wears down a little more, causing brake pads to wear down faster than rotors, calipers, or any other braking component. Let’s look at the expected usual lifespan of a brake pad and when you should visit your Honda dealer for replacements.
How Often Should You Get New Brake Pads for Your Honda?
30,000 to 35,000 Miles for Typical Urban Driving
If you live in an urban area or your daily commute takes you into a city, your pads are likely to last around 30,000 to 35,000 miles. Urban driving reduces the lifespan of pads somewhat because of all the braking you do on short trips, while stuck in traffic, and while slowing for frequent traffic lights.
Up to 80,000 Miles in Less Heavy Braking Conditions
If you live in a smaller town or rural area where less frequent braking is required, then your pads are likely to last a lot longer. They might even last as long as 80,000 miles or even more. This is assuming that your regular driving doesn’t include any other conditions that put brakes under excessive strain.
Examples of Brake-Heavy Driving Conditions
There are various brake-heavy conditions that can drastically shorten the lifespan of a brake pad. Even your driving style may make a difference. Here are a few significant factors.
Really Heavy Stop-and-Go Traffic
If your daily commute takes you into the heavier traffic we sometimes find in nearby Honolulu, then you might be using your brakes excessively. Spending an hour every day in stop-and-go traffic can take a tremendous toll on a car’s brakes.
Steep, Winding Mountainous Roads
There are many nearby mountainous areas on Oahu with steep or winding stretches of road. Any time you’re descending a steep road or handling many sharp bends over hilly terrain, your pads are put under a great deal of pressure. If these are regular driving conditions for you, your pads will certainly wear down faster.
Hauling Heavy Loads
Pulling heavy trailers or carrying large objects on the roof rack makes your vehicle more difficult to slow and stop. So if you’re often taking a sailboat, water scooter, or surfing equipment down to the beach, you might be putting your pads under a little more pressure.
Riding the Brakes
Some drivers have a habit of riding their brakes, which means they use the brakes far too often at unnecessary times. If you have this habit, remember that taking your foot off the gas and allowing gravity to slow your car often serves the same purpose. And it gives your pads a break as well.
Have Your Pads Checked Often at Your Local Honda Dealer
Most car owners with ordinary driving conditions should have their brakes checked at least twice a year. That way the technician can let you know how much longer each of your pads is likely to last.
Visit Tony Honda today to have your pads checked or replaced. We’re a welcoming family-operated dealership that’s been helping out the island’s drivers for 45 years and counting.
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