How Long Do Brake Pads Last On a Semi-Truck?

The safety of drivers and passengers is of utmost importance when it comes to driving any vehicle. However, when it comes to semi-trucks, safety becomes even more crucial. Semi-trucks are often involved in long hauls and carry heavy loads, increasing the risk of accidents. One of the most important vehicle control and safety features of a semi-truck is the braking system, which ensures the truck can maintain safe handling, controlled speeds, and reliable stopping power.

Even though brake pads for semis are made to stop more weight and withstand harsher usage conditions than those on light-duty vehicles, they still don’t last forever. No matter how careful of a driver you are, or how many more highway miles you put on than city miles, there will be a point where your brake pads are going to need to be replaced. We’re going to take a look at how long they should last you on average, as well as what factors can contribute to either extending or shortening their expected lifespan.

What’s the Lifespan of Semi-Truck Brake Pads?

Simply put, the lifespan of brake pads on a semi-truck will vary considerably, and it is dependent on several important factors. Typically, the average lifespan of brake pads is around 25,000 to 50,000 miles, but this can vary significantly depending on how and where the vehicle is driven, sometimes giving the operator 70,000 miles or more of reliable braking performance.

Let’s take a look at some of the factors and behaviors that can have an impact on brake pad performance and life expectancy.

5 Factors That Influence Brake Pad Longevity

There are many different factors that can have an impact on brake pad lifespans, but we’re only going to dig into the most significant.

1. Load Weight

One of the most significant factors that affect the lifespan of brake pads is the weight of the load being carried. Lighter loads require less power to slow and eventually stop, while heavier loads require much more power. This increased weight requires more friction and as a result, more heat, to stop, which puts much more wear on the brake pads. 

2. Driving Conditions

The type of driving conditions that the truck is subjected to also affects the lifespan of brake pads. Drivers who operate primarily long-haul routes will often see far less brake wear than those who operate in more developed or urban areas. The simple reason is that drivers on highways tend to use their brakes less frequently since there are fewer stops, no traffic lights, and much longer periods between needing to slow the truck.

3. Individual Driver Habits

The driving habits of the driver also play a significant role in how long the brake pads will last. Drivers that brake harder will find that they require more frequent brake pad changes, while those that brake more conscientiously can get more mileage out of them. 

4. Type Of Brake Pad Used

The type of brake pads used on the semi-truck also affects their lifespan. There are several types of brake pads available, each with different materials and compositions. Ceramic pads are best suited to semi-truck applications, due to their high-temperature resistance and low dust accumulation. Metallic pads are another good option for heavy-duty trucks, and they tend to be less expensive as well.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance of the brake system is crucial in ensuring that the brake pads last as long as possible. Failure to carry out regular inspections and replacements can lead to premature wear and tear of the brake pads, which can cause brake failure and accidents. The recommended maintenance for most pads is about every 50,000 miles. 

How Can I Tell If My Semi Truck Brakes Need to Be Replaced?

It is important to be aware of the signs that indicate that the brake pads need to be replaced. Below are some common signs to look out for.

1. New Noises

When the brake pads are worn out, they can make a high-pitched squealing or grinding noise, indicating that they need to be replaced. A squealing noise is generally the result of the brake pad wearing down to a critical point, at which service is needed soon. If the noise progresses to grinding, the pad is likely gone, and the caliper is pressing the pad backing into the rotor.

2. Reduced Braking Effectiveness

If you notice that the brakes are not as responsive as they used to be, this could be a sign that the brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced. The reduced effectiveness can stem from worn pads or even low or leaking brake fluid.

3. Vibration During Braking

If you feel a vibration or pulsation in the brake pedal when you apply the brakes, this could indicate that the brake pads are worn out or warped. Another possibility is that worn pads have caused the rotors to heat up and deform, another issue which requires professional attention.

4. Thin or Faded Pads

You can visually inspect the brake pads by looking through the spokes of the wheels. If the brake pads appear to be very thin, this could indicate that they need to be replaced, even if they haven’t started squealing yet. Pads damaged from brake fade or prolonged extreme temperatures may need to be taken out and inspected.

Blaine Brothers is Ready to Help You Get Back on the Road Safely

For light-duty vehicles, a brake pad job can be incredibly quick and easy, but for semi-trucks, there is more to consider. Working with an experienced company like Blaine Brothers ensures that your truck gets the right pads for your needs, and that all other components of the braking system are working optimally as well. 

We understand that as a truck driver, your career revolves around your safe operation on the road, and we want to help you maintain that safe operation all year round. 

If your brake pads are approaching the end of their expected life, or if you’ve started to experience some of the signs of failing brake pads that we discussed, reach out to Blaine Brothers today to schedule an appointment at one of our repair shops in Minnesota or Wisconsin.