Services
Insurance
Loans
Repairs
Advice
About

How long does it take brake pads to wear down?

My car just recently reached the 20,000-mile mark and I’ve heard it said that you’re supposed to get your brake pads changed at 20,000 miles. My brakes still seem like they’re working fine and they aren’t making any noise, but should I still change them? How do I know how long my brake pads last?

avatar
Abbey Orzech · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Congratulations to your car for making the 20,000-mile mark! I’m sure you two are very happy together.
Unfortunately, as far as your brakes are concerned, there is no hard and fast answer to your question. Some say 20,000 miles, some say 70,000 miles, some say you should shoot for in between those numbers! The average car owner replaces brake pads at around 40,000 miles, but the condition of your brake pads will really depend on:
  • Your driving habits—do you tend to drive with two feet or often have to decelerate quickly?
  • Your driving environment—are you driving through hills or plains?
  • The type of brake pads you have.
If you’re still not sure, here are some things to look out or listen for that can indicate it’s time for a brake pad change:
  • You hear a metallic
    grinding sound
    when pressing your brakes.
  • You hear squealing when pressing your brakes.
  • You notice a brake pad indicator light has come on in your vehicle.
Maintaining your car’s
brakes is important to your and other drivers’ safety on the road, so it is worth the expense. But if you’re looking to cut down on car-related costs, look no further than
Jerry
! Jerry is an
insurance comparison app
that shops for low prices with dozens of different
car insurance
companies for free. You will get quotes in seconds, can make changes at any time, and if you ever have any questions, agents are just a text away!
View full answer 
WHY YOU CAN TRUST JERRY
Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

Join 4M+ members in lowering their car insurance

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings