Save Money by Making Your Brakes Last Longer

Everyone likes saving money, especially when it also means making fewer trips to the mechanic and the pump. Follow these tips to make your brakes last longer, and you’ll find that your money goes further too. Now that’s a bonus!

1. Slow it Down

When you’re in a hurry, it's tempting to try to get where you're going as quickly as possible (within the speed limit, of course). But when you inevitably get to the next red light or stop sign, you should know that stopping from a high speed requires more energy than stopping from a slow speed, and it also wears away more brake material. Research shows that your driving techniques can affect your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by up to 30%.

2. Travel Light

Some car ads boast about how much gear a vehicle can stow, but a heavy, overloaded car can cause unnecessary strain on the brakes when stopping. So cleaning out that heavy hockey bag or the set of golf clubs that's been sitting in your trunk for months could actually help you save money on brake maintenance. For every 100 pounds your car loses, you’ll gain an extra 2% in fuel economy.

3. Don't Forget to Flush

Flushing your brake fluid regularly keeps everything working smoothly and can help the internal components of your braking system last longer. It's recommended that you have your fluid levels checked every time you have an oil change. Even if the levels haven't dropped too low, it's best to replace your brake fluid every two or three years to make sure it's as clean as possible.

4. Keep Coasting

Instead of speeding up and then braking hard to slow down, keep your speed low and steady and you might be able to coast through sections of road where you might otherwise have to brake. If you know there’s a steep hill on your daily commute, approach slowly and try coasting down the hill rather than riding your brakes. Over time, this will become a habit and you’ll naturally start braking less.

5. Get regular checkups

Have your brakes checked regularly and you’ll be able to detect small problems before they become larger and more costly. It may seem counter-intuitive, but having your brakes looked at more often can save you money in the long run.

Time to get your brakes checked? Book an appointment with one of our trusted experts at a BCAA Auto Service Centre near you, where Members get exclusive savings, a FREE car wash and a two-year warranty.