One of the most overlooked yet important vehicle systems is the brakes. Like tires, they are an important safety component and will likely need to be replaced several times over the course of owning your Toyota. Fortunately, changing the pads and rotors is inexpensive, generally costing no more than 00-$300. However, a common question we hear from drivers is how do I know when they need to be replaced. So, let's dive in and answer some general questions about Toyota brake pads and rotors.
How Long Do They Last?
Unlike oil changes or tune-ups, which are done at intervals based on mileage, brake pads and rotors are replaced as needed. In other words, when they are worn. As such, their service life depends on several factors, like the type of vehicle, how they are used (carrying loads or towing wears them out faster), driving habits, and the type of pad materials (ceramics last longer than semi-metallics). With that said, the average life expectancy for a set of brake pads is between 30,000-70,000 miles, and 50,000-70,000 miles for rotors.
How Do I Know When My Brakes Need to Be Serviced?
There are several ways to tell when your Toyota's brakes need to be serviced. If your vehicle has alloy wheels, you should be able to look between the spokes and visually inspect the pads. If not, they can be inspected when the wheels are removed during a tire replacement or rotation. In addition, most brake pads have wear indicators, a metal strip that comes into contact with the rotor's surface if they are worn past a certain point. If the brakes are applied when the vehicle is moving, an audible screeching sound will be heard, although it may be constant if the pads are heavily worn.
Other warning signs are if the vehicle pulls to one side or a pulsation in the brake pedal or steering wheel is felt when stopping. Additional symptoms may include a spongy or soft brake pedal or having to push it harder to stop the vehicle. However, this can be due to other issues, such as a sticking caliper or air in the brake system.
Do the Front and Rears Need to Be Replaced at the Same Time?
Unless the front and rear are in need of replacement, the pads and rotors only need to be changed across the axle. In other words, on both front or rear wheels. In addition, the brake fluid should be inspected and replaced if it is dirty or has been more than two years or 20,000 miles since it was last changed.
How Can I Extend the Life of My Brake Pads and Rotors?
There are several ways you can extend the life of your pads and rotors. Among them are driving at a slower speed and braking earlier. Likewise, applying light pressure to brakes and gradually coming to a stop instead of late, hard braking.
The Bottom Line
Brakes are one of your vehicle's most important safety components and can be the difference between avoiding an accident or being in one. If your Toyota is not stopping the way it should be, pulls to one side when braking, or you hear squeaking sounds coming from the brakes, they should be inspected by an automotive professional.
