How Often Should You Replace Your Kia’s Brake Pads?

Do you remember the last time your brake pads were replaced? If you don’t, you’re not alone. Most people can’t remember the last time they visited their local Kia dealer for pad replacement. However, one of the most important systems in your vehicle is your brake system, and regular pad replacement will keep your brake system operating safely and effectively. Here’s what you need to know.

How Often Should You Replace Your Brake Pads? 

As a general rule of thumb, your brake system will benefit significantly if you get your pads changed every 10,000 miles if you brake aggressively on a regular basis. If you don’t, you may be okay to not get your pads changed until you have driven 20,000 miles.

If you put a lot of miles on your car taking your kids to school, going to work, running errands, and traveling, you may feel frustrated by how often your pads need to be replaced. Fortunately, your brake rotors don’t need to be replaced nearly as often as your pads. Specifically, most brake rotors will remain safe and effective for 50,000 miles. If you rarely brake aggressively, they may even remain safe and effective for 70,000 miles.

Should I Go to My Local Kia Dealer to Get My Pads Replaced? 

Yes, you should go to your local authorized dealer of Kias to get your pads replaced because our dealership technicians are certified to work on Kias. Not only can you be confident that your pads will be replaced correctly, but our techs can also spot other safety issues your vehicle may be having. For instance, we can tell if your alignment is off or if one of your wheel bearings is loose and needs to be tightened.

How Do I Know Whether My Pads Need Replacement? 

A Vibrating Steering Wheel

There is a very good chance that something is wrong with the pads of your brakes if your steering wheel shakes when you depress your brake pedal. Specifically, it is likely that one of your pads is more worn than the other pads if you feel your steering wheel shake when you slow or stop your car. Nonetheless, there is a chance that you have a warped rotor, so the cause of the shaking must be diagnosed by a certified technician.

A Grinding Sound When Decelerating

There is also a strong possibility that it is time to have your pads replaced if you hear a grinding sound coming from one of your tires consistently when you decelerate your vehicle. This indicates your pads are so worn that they are no longer very effective or safe.

Typically, your pads should be replaced every 10 to 20,000 miles. If you can’t remember the last time your pads were replaced at your local authorized automobile dealer, it is probably time for your pads to be replaced by a certified Kia technician. Contact us today at Crain Kia of Fayetteville on N College Avenue to schedule an appointment and find out whether your brake rotors, pads, or both are ready to be replaced by a professional mechanic. 

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