Brake pads and rotors are “wear” items that require periodic replacement. The pads are the friction material that press against the rotor to stop a vehicle. If they aren’t replaced, they’ll eventually wear down to the metal backing plates to which they’re mounted. Rotors can warp, wear unevenly or be damaged beyond repair if the pads are worn down to the backing plate. How long pads and rotors last depends on how many miles you drive and how often you use the brakes. The only guarantee is that they won’t last forever.
Rick Popely
Contributor Rick Popely has covered the auto industry for decades and hosts a weekly online radio show on TalkZone.com.