How often should Subaru brakes be replaced?
Subaru recommends replacing the brake pads on your vehicle every 30,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on your driving conditions and habits. However, the actual frequency may vary based on several factors. In this article, we'll explore the recommended brake replacement schedule for Subaru vehicles and provide guidance on when to have your brakes inspected and serviced.
Subaru Brake Replacement Recommendations
Subaru's recommended brake pad replacement interval is typically between 30,000 and 60,000 miles, but this can vary depending on several factors:
- Driving conditions: Frequent stop-and-go driving, towing heavy loads, or driving in mountainous areas can cause faster brake pad wear.
- Driving habits: Aggressive braking, such as sudden stops or riding the brakes, can accelerate brake pad wear.
- Brake pad material: Some aftermarket brake pads may have a shorter lifespan than the original equipment (OE) pads.
- Vehicle model: Certain Subaru models, such as the WRX and STI, may require more frequent brake service due to their performance-oriented design.
It's important to note that the brake pad wear can be uneven, with one side wearing down faster than the other. Regular brake inspections are crucial to ensure your Subaru's braking system is functioning properly and to identify any potential issues before they become more serious.
Signs It's Time to Replace Subaru Brakes
Even if you haven't reached the recommended mileage interval, there are several signs that may indicate it's time to replace your Subaru's brake pads:
- Squeaking or grinding noises when braking
- Vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal
- Decreased braking performance or longer stopping distances
- Visible wear on the brake pads (less than 1/4 inch of pad material remaining)
If you notice any of these signs, it's best to have your Subaru's brakes inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible to avoid potential safety issues or further damage to the braking system.
Maintaining Your Subaru's Brakes
In addition to regular brake pad replacement, there are other maintenance tasks you can perform to help extend the life of your Subaru's braking system:
- Have your brakes inspected during routine service appointments
- Check your brake fluid level and have it flushed and replaced as recommended
- Avoid aggressive braking and driving habits that can accelerate brake wear
- Use high-quality, OE-recommended brake pads and components when replacing parts
By following Subaru's recommended maintenance schedule and being attentive to any signs of brake wear or issues, you can help ensure your Subaru's braking system remains in top condition and provides reliable, safe performance for years to come.
How do I know if my Subaru brakes are bad?
4 Signs You Should Talk to a Subaru Dealer about Brake Repair
- Squeaking or Grinding Noise. If you hear squeaking or grinding when braking, it's a sign your vehicle needs a brake job.
- Vibrations in the Brake Pedal.
- Dashboard Warning Light.
- Pulling to One Side.
How to tell if car brakes need replacing?
9 Early Warning Signs You Need New Brakes
- Visible Wear-and-Tear. A visual inspection is one way to check the condition of your car's brake pads.
- High-Pitched Screeching.
- Screeching Despite New Pads.
- Slow Stopping Response.
- Brake Pedal Vibration.
- Extremely Sensitive or Insensitive Brakes.
- Driveway Puddle.
- Heavy Grinding Sound.
Can I just replace brake pads and not rotors?
You don't always have to replace rotors when replacing brake pads. The frequency of rotor replacement depends on factors like rotor quality and driving conditions. However, if your mechanic finds warped or worn rotors beyond the minimum discard thickness, they recommend replacing them together with brake pads.
How much does it cost to get all 4 brakes replaced?
A complete brake repair that includes pads, rotors, and calipers typically averages between $200 and $800 depending on the vehicle and parts used.
Should I replace all 4 brakes at the same time?
Usually not. Typically both front brakes need replacing, or both back brakes, but occasionally all 4 are worn at the same time. Decide based on inspection and how much braking material remains.
How many miles do factory brakes last?
How Many Miles Do Brakes Last? There's no standard answer to this question. Car manufacturers estimate that brake pads can last anywhere between 20,000 to 70,000 miles. On average, most car owners replace their brake pads after 40,000 miles to ensure they're still in good shape.
How long do brakes last on a Subaru?
On average, pads need to be changed every 25,000 to 70,000 miles depending on the type of pads you have. Your car service manual gives the exact replacement time for your Subaru model. The replacement time can be affected by both driving conditions and your driving style.
Can brake pads last 80,000 miles?
Typically brake pads can last between 25,000 and 65,000 miles, and even upwards of 80,000 miles depending on the type of brake pads. There's so much variation because of the factors that impact break down. Take the time to check your owner's manual to get an idea of the recommended service schedule.
Can brake pads last 10 years?
Brake pads can last anywhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. Their longevity depends on your driving style and typical driving conditions. Using data provided by Federal Highway Administration statistics on how many miles people drive annually, typical brake pads will last between 3 and 7 years.
Why do Subaru rear brakes wear faster?
Similarly with front brake pads, your Subaru rear brake pads will mostly wear down at the equal rate on both the left and acceptable side of your vehicle. Unlike front brake pads, most rear brake pads wear down faster due to the brake mechanics of rear wheel drive cars.
