Here at our Winnipeg automotive service centre, we often get questions from new customers about the durability and expected lifespan of the OEM parts we install. One such question is asked regarding the braking system of a vehicle — more specifically, “How long should brake pads last?” 

Learn more about how long brake pads last below. Our expert technicians are eager to provide you with maintenance-related information about your vehicle’s braking system and potential upgrades like ceramic brake pads! How long do ceramic brake pads last? Find that out here, too! Don’t forget to contact us if you have any questions — we’re here to help!

Why Do Brake Pads Wear Down?

Before answering how long brake pads last, we first need to understand what they do. Brake pads are the pieces of your braking system that make direct contact with brake rotors to cause friction and slow down your vehicle on the streets of Brandon. This friction, and the heat caused by it, is exactly the reaction that causes brake pads to eventually wear down to needing replacement. 

A few factors can affect how long brake pads should last on your new or pre-owned Ford. Some of which, like how hard you regularly apply the brake pedal, are within your control! Other, less controllable factors such as outside temperatures and road conditions can also negatively impact how long brake pads last during your drives around Portage la Prairie. Check out the list below for a breakdown of the factors that can impact how long brake pads last:

• Driving/braking habits
• Type of brake pad
• Manual vs. automatic transmission
• Local driving environment
• Condition of other brake components

How Long Should Brake Pads Last?

With the above information in mind, it should be noted that brake pads have a different rate of burn-off for each make and model and, more specifically, each brand and quality level of the brake pads themselves. However, you can expect the average set of brake pads to last at least 32,180 kilometres on the low end or up to 120,700 kilometres on the high end.

How Long Do Ceramic Brake Pads Last?

When discussing the higher end of how long brake pads last, it’s hard not to talk about the most resilient brake pad material, typically only found on high-performance and luxury cars: ceramic brake pads! How long do ceramic brake pads last? They can perform reliably for up to 75,000 kilometres on average! Call us at 204-772-2411 and ask about a potential ceramic brake pad upgrade!

Get Your Brake Pads Replaced at Capital Ford Winnipeg

You’ve now got a definitive answer to the question, “How long do brake pads last?” However, if you want to stay safe on the roads of Dauphin and beyond, you’ll want to schedule service at Capital Ford Winnipeg and get your Ford inspected! Just make sure you take a peek at our rotating service specials before you stop by our Winnipeg dealership.