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On any vehicle, problems can sometimes arise from nowhere. Of course, frequent maintenance checks could give you a chance to prevent future issues with the vehicle, but everyday issues can still occur at any time. One of the many concerns might be screeching brakes, and there are ways to prevent the noises from happening, depending on if your brakes are new or old. Brake squeaking might happen because of driving habits or even driving conditions. Below we’ll provide a breakdown of the more common reasons as to why your brakes are squeaking, how many miles your brake pads should last, and when you should change your car’s brakes.
This might surprise you, but one cause of brake screeching is that your brakes are simply just too new. Your vehicle’s brakes might need some more miles to break in and get accustomed to your vehicle. Sometimes weather conditions may lead to built-up moisture on your brake pads, and it can take a while to remove that moisture. Also, your driving could create some brake squeaking. “Riding” your brakes (keeping your foot on the brakes) or heavy braking can lead to brake noise, especially if they are new. If that’s the case, then think about giving your brakes a break to help reduce more friction.
Worn-down brakes could be the reason you might experience that squeaking noise as well. Over time, parts on every vehicle will likely start to break down due to moisture, driving habits, rust, and if it is garaged or not. The easy fix is to get them replaced with new ones. However, a shift in the way you drive may reduce the screeching before driving the car to the dealership.
The lifespan of brakes could last years, based on the way drivers treat the brake pads. Understanding your driving habits is the most important, as it can help you know when to change the brake pads. Brake pads typically last around 25,000 to 65,000 miles, but driving habits have such a crucial role. Braking hard and riding the brakes (when your foot is always on the brake pedal) places a lot of friction and pressure on your brake pads and may lead to shrinking their life. If screeching begins to occur, you should consider getting them looked at and try adjusting the way you drive in the future to extend the brake pad’s lifespan.
Contact us at Lexus Southwest Houston if you think your brake pads need to be changed. Our team of professionals is ready to take all of the guesswork out of figuring out the specific brake service your car or SUV needs. We will happily service your vehicle no matter its make or model. Schedule your brake service appointment today.
