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Knowing When Subaru Brake Pad Rotor Replacement Should Be Done

As a Subaru owner in Connecticut, understanding when to replace your brake pads and rotors is crucial for safe driving. While there’s no one-size-fits-all mileage interval, several factors determine the lifespan of these vital components. Buddy Blichfeldt, a service expert at Quality Subaru in Wallingford, CT, shares valuable insights to help you know when it’s time for a brake job.

Driving Habits: The Key Factor

“Some people can go through brakes, you know, every 30,000 miles while someone else, you know, it might go 60,000 miles. And certainly, the front brake pads are going to wear much, much faster than the rears are.”

According to Blichfeldt, your driving habits play a significant role in determining brake wear. If you frequently engage in aggressive driving, with hard acceleration and sudden braking, you’ll likely need to replace your brake pads and rotors more often.

“If you’re around town and you’re really getting on the vehicle, you’re constantly accelerating fast and then slowing down hard, you’re gonna put a lot more wear on your brakes itself.”

The Weight Factor: Heavier Vehicles Wear Brakes Faster

The weight of your Subaru also impacts brake wear. Heavier vehicles, like the Subaru Ascent or electric models, tend to experience more rapid brake pad and rotor deterioration due to the increased braking force required.

“The heavier the vehicle, you’re generally going to experience, you know, more brake wear. And the type of vehicle itself, if it’s a performance vehicle, certainly, you know, I know people with our WRX model tend to drive the vehicle more aggressively. So aggressive driving equals more wear, wear on your tires and wear on your brakes. Subaru brake pad rotor replacement will occur more frequently. “

Regular Inspections: The Key to Timely Replacements

Subaru brake pad rotor replacement in Connecticut
Learn when to replace Subaru brake pads and rotors in Connecticut

While there’s no set mileage interval for brake replacements, Blichfeldt emphasizes the importance of regular inspections during routine maintenance visits, such as oil changes.

“The best way to know when Subaru brake pad rotor replacement is needed is to bring your vehicle in for routine maintenance, you know, getting your oil changed. And at that point, we’re able to check your brakes while the vehicle is up on the lift.”

During these inspections, certified technicians can visually assess the condition of your brake pads and rotors, as well as take precise measurements to determine if Subaru brake pad rotor replacement is necessary.

The Risks of Driving with Worn Brakes

Ignoring the need for Subaru brake pad rotor replacement can have severe consequences, compromising your safety and potentially leading to costly repairs down the line.

“If you wear out the brakes, you get to the end of the line with those pads where you’re hearing an audible screeching sound, now you know you have a real problem…you’re either at the wear indicator within the pad itself, or you’ve even gone past that and now you’re at what’s called ‘metal to metal’ where the calipers are actually clamping down onto the brake rotor and you don’t even have any pad left, there’s no pad material. So that’s when you’re in serious trouble where your vehicle is just outright dangerous.”

By heeding the warning signs and seeking timely brake service from certified Subaru technicians in Connecticut, you can ensure your brakes are in top condition for a safe and enjoyable driving experience.

By staying vigilant for signs of wear, considering your driving habits and vehicle weight, and seeking professional brake service from certified Subaru technicians in Connecticut, you can ensure your brakes are in optimal condition for safe and reliable performance.

FAQ

How do I know if my Subaru needs new brake pads?

Warning signs include squeaking or screeching noises when braking, a shaking steering wheel or pedal, and a spongy or low brake pedal. Regular inspections can also identify worn pads.

What causes brake rotors to warp?

Excessive heat buildup from aggressive braking can cause brake rotors to warp or become misshapen, leading to vibrations and shaking during braking.

Should I replace brake pads and rotors at the same time?

While not always necessary, replacing pads and rotors together is often recommended to ensure even wear and optimal braking performance.

How long do Subaru brake pads typically last?

Brake pad lifespan typically can vary significantly based on driving habits and vehicle weight, ranging from 30,000 to 60,000 miles or more. But this all depends on your driving habits.

Can I replace my Subaru’s brake pads myself?

While possible for experienced DIYers, Blichfeldt advises against DIY brake work due to the complexity and safety-critical nature of the braking system. Improper installation or bleeding can lead to safety and performance issues.

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