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Tips for Extending the Life of Your Brake Pads

Brake repair

BC drivers, are your brake pads starting to feel the strain after those long winter drives and holiday road trips? Well, pump the brakes on your worries because Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres are here to help you get a grip on brake pad longevity. With 15 locations across BC and Alberta, we’re your go-to pit stop for all things brake repair and more. Let’s dive into some handy tips to keep your brake pads from wearing thin – and your wallet from wearing out!

Common Causes of Brake Wear in Beautiful British Columbia

Living in BC means dealing with diverse driving conditions that can significantly pressure your brakes. Here are some common culprits that might be causing your brake pads to wear out quickly:

  • Our stunning mountain roads can be a real brake-breaker. Constant downhill driving generates more heat, which can cause faster wear on your brakes.

  • Stop-and-go traffic in Vancouver and other urban areas leads to frequent braking, which accelerates brake pad wear.

  • Carrying extra weight in your vehicle – whether camping gear for a trip to Tofino or your entire life’s possessions during a move – puts additional stress on your brakes.

  • Our salty sea air can be great for fish and chips but not so much for your brake components. Rust and corrosion can lead to uneven wear and tear.

Habits That Extend the Life of Your Brake Pads

Don’t let bad habits wear your brake pads down prematurely! Here are some tips to keep your brakes in top condition for the long haul:

  • Ease off the gas pedal earlier and give yourself more time to stop. This reduces the need for sudden braking and puts less strain on your brake pads.

  • Remove unnecessary weight from your vehicle. Lighter loads reduce the workload on your brakes and can even improve fuel efficiency.

  • Whenever possible, coast to decelerate before applying your brakes. This gives your brake pads a break by reducing the frequency of hard stops.

  • Maintain a safe following distance. This gives you more time to react and reduces the chances of having to make sudden, hard stops.

The Lifespan of Brake Pads: How Long Should They Last?

On average, brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 kilometres. However, this can vary widely depending on your driving habits and conditions. Your mileage may vary in BC, where we deal with everything from steep hills to salty roads. At Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres, we recommend having your brakes inspected at least once a year or every 20,000 kilometres, whichever comes first.

Signs Your Brakes Need Professional Attention

Keep an ear (and foot) out for these warning signs:

  • Squealing or grinding noises.

  • Vibration in the brake pedal.

  • Soft or spongy brake pedal.

  • Car pulling to one side when braking.

  • Brake warning light on your dashboard.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres.

Remember, we’re not just about brakes! While checking your brake pads, we can also take care of your oil change, fluid flush, tire repairs, wheel alignment, and even give your electrical system a once-over. We’re your one-stop shop for keeping your ride in prime condition.

Call Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres today to schedule your brake inspection or repair. With our 15 convenient locations across BC and Alberta, we’re never far away when you need us. Let’s keep your brakes in top shape so you can confidently hit the road.

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Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres Address Common Issues

Here at Minit-Tune & Brake Auto Centres in British Columbia, we’re always pleased to help our customers get the most out of their cars and trucks. To that end, we’ll add a relevant blog topic from time to time to keep you up to date and getting the most out of your vehicle.

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