You rely on your car’s brakes to keep you safe. With regular brake service and auto repair appointments, most systems will last for several years. However, poor driving habits can harm your brakes and shorten their lifespan. Below are several tips to ensure your brakes last as long as they were intended to.

How to Prolong the Life of Your Brakes

1. Slow Down

The faster you drive, the more energy and force you'll need to bring the car to a full stop, which will increase wear and tear on your brake pads. Slowing your speed reduces this level of friction substantially, preserving the integrity of your brakes. 

Give yourself three seconds of space when following other drivers so you’ll have enough time to slow down without abruptly slamming on the system.

2. Minimize Excessive Weight 

Drivers are often not aware that excess car weight puts a heavier burden on their brake pads. Removing heavy tools, boxes, and other non-essential items from the interior and trunk of your car will minimize the added pressure put on your brakes.

3. Use Your Right Foot

Using your right foot to brake and accelerate prevents you from brake tapping, which puts unnecessary pressure on your brake pads and can lead to premature wear. To avoid frequent trips to an auto repair shop for brake servicing, learn to use one foot while driving rather than both feet simultaneously.

4. Be Mindful of Road Conditions

Poor road conditions and adverse weather can affect how often you need to brake. Whenever possible, avoid roads with rubble, sand, and potholes, as these conditions can hinder your ability to slow down. Dirt and other debris can also cause premature wear if objects get stuck in your brake system.

5. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Getting your brake system serviced regularly is important to preserve its performance. In general, auto repair experts recommend having your brake fluid changed every two years, and your brake pads replaced every 50,000 miles.

If your car brakes are in need of repair, visit Griff’s Auto Service in Rochester, NY. For more than three decades, this AAA®-approved auto repair shop has been serving drivers throughout northwest New York. They provide a wide range of services—from engine tune-ups to oil changes—and have an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau®. Visit their website to learn more, or call (585) 227-8700 to make an appointment today.