What's the difference between brake shoes and brake pads?

Brake shoes are curved metal blocks that are used with older drum brake systems. When the brakes are applied, the shoes press against the inner lining of the drum, creating friction. The friction causes the drums to slow, slowing the vehicle. Brake shoes are not as efficient as brake pads, but they are still used on some vehicles because they are inexpensive and they work well on rear brakes.

Brake pads are flat metal plates with a thick friction layer on one side. They are used with the disc brake systems that come with most newer cars. When the brakes are applied, hydraulic pressure is applied to the pads, causing them to squeeze the brake rotors, which stops the vehicle. Brake pads cool more efficiently than brake shoes, and they also work better in wet weather.

How long do brake pads last?

How long your brake pads last depends on what types of pads and rotors you have as well as your driving style. On average, brake pads tend to last about 50,000 miles, ranging from 30,000 miles on the low end to 70,000 miles on the high end. For most drivers, this comes out to almost four years. Some drivers may need to replace their pads after three years, while others may find their pads last over six years. Brake rotors may last two or three times as long as brake pads.

What causes brake pads to wear out?

The friction applied to brake pads gradually wears them down until they become thin. This erosion process can be accelerated by a number of factors, including the type of material your front and rear brake pads are made from, how often you drive on hills, how frequently you brake, how sharply you brake, and how tightly your wheel lugs are screwed. Once pads are too thin to use, your car becomes dangerous to drive. If you continue driving your vehicle in this condition, eventually your front and rear brake rotors can become uneven and warped over time, which will require you to replace your entire braking assembly instead of just your pads.

Buy replacement brake pads online or visit your local Advance Auto Parts store and have one of our knowledgeable Team Members help you. Brake repair has never been so easy!