Welcome, speedsters, and car enthusiasts alike! We’re about to hit the brakes – specifically, the ones at the back of your ride. Imagine what I say: you’re cruising down the open road and feeling the adrenaline rush as you conquer every twist and turn. But suddenly, something’s off – your rear brakes seem to be wearing down faster than a Facebook trend dies out. What gives, right?
Now, a question arises: “why do rear brakes wear faster when the front ones do most of the work?” Good question! It relates to friction, heat, and driving habits that decide the brakes’ lifespan. However, the rear brakes handle less of the vehicle’s weight and braking force than the front brakes. As a result, they must work harder to slow down the car. And it causes them to wear quicker and tear.
In this mind-blowing article, I am turning up the dial to demystify the reasons behind rear brake wear with some humor and read explanations. So, prepare for wild metaphors and random compliments as we embark on this epic journey together.
Front vs. Rear Brakes: Different Functions and Dynamics
Think of your car’s braking system like a squad – the front and rear brakes each have unique roles to play.
Front brakes are the “go-getters” of the team. They take on about 75% of the braking load (repairsmith). When you hit the brakes and your car’s weight shifts forward, it puts more pressure on the front wheels. That’s why they handle most of the workload.
What about rear brakes, then?
Well, they are the “chill dudes” – they contribute to around 40% of the braking force (repairsmith). Their primary job is to balance out the braking effort. Also, they keep the car stable during sudden stops.
Unfortunately, you must replace the rear brakes quicker than the front ones. As one said,
“I had to replace my rear brakes before my front brakes” (audiworld).
Another BMW owner also said a similar thing, “….experienced rears wearing faster than the fronts…” (bimmerfest)
Hovering over the internet, you can find many reports regarding the same issue. But many people do not know why this happens. So, it’s time to explore why rear brakes seem to be wearing out faster than the latest meme online.
The Factors – Why Do Rear Brakes Wear Faster?
It’s not a single factor causing all the rear brake trouble – there are multiple of them in the game.
Driving Habits
Our driving style is like the social media presence – it leaves a lasting impression. Now, I assume you’re a speed demon, constantly hitting the gas and slamming the brakes like a dance move. Well, your rear brakes might be giving you some serious side-eye.
Aggressive driving puts extra stress on those chill dudes in the back. It’s like expecting them to handle all the partying while the front brakes get to relax. Not cool, right?
Solution:
So, how can you keep those rear brakes in good spirits? It’s all about finding your groove and embracing the art of smooth braking. It reduces the stress on your entire braking system. As a result, those rear brakes get some much-needed breathing room. It will prolong their lifespan and enhance their overall driving experience.
Terrain and Road Conditions
Roads can be as erratic as an unexpected power outage during a gaming marathon. If you’re frequently navigating through rough, hilly terrains, potholes, or gravel, your brakes are taking a beating. Similarly, your brakes must work harder to maintain a safe speed when going downhill.
The friction from hitting all these obstacles will generate more heat. Over time, this heat can cause them to wear and tear.
Solution:
If you are not driving on even surfaces, you should use engine braking and downshift to reduce your reliance on the brakes. It will protect the rear brakes from wearing out faster.
City vs. Highway Driving
It’s like – two contrasting worlds with different brake-wear tales to tell. For instance, city drivers prepare for more frequent braking in heavy traffic conditions. It puts more stress on the brake system, especially the rear ones.
In contrast, highway driving gives a more even distribution of wear between the front and rear brakes. After all, who would love to pause and start their vehicles on the highway? Consistent driving at a certain speed involves less braking and more coasting.
Solution:
In my view, it’s not a solution, instead it’s a suggestion for both city and highway drivers. You should be careful that unnecessary stress on brakes can make your driving boring. Again, you should not brake too frequently unless it is necessary.
Weight Distribution
Carrying heavy loads, whether passengers or cargo, affects brake wear. According to Fast Way Trailer, under-distribution of weight cause loss of steering and brake control. Similarly, over-distribution can make you repair the brake and axle fatigue and failure. But do you know how these things happen?
When your car carries a heavy load, the weight distribution shifts. In such a situation, your rear brakes must work harder to balance things. And, to make matters worse, the added weight means more friction and heat – a perfect recipe for some severe rear brake fade.
Solution:
You can follow the 50-50 rule of weight distribution for perfect balancing (flowracers). It means you put even weight on both brakes. If you have a front-wheel drive (FWD) car, you can use a 60-40 ratio. It will put less stress on the rear brakes.
Improper Brake Bias or Adjustments
Did you check if all components are installed and adjusted correctly? If not, then you might be risking the rear brakes. Incorrect adjustments cause uneven wear on the vehicle brake pads and rotors.
Here comes the brake bias. It is like the weight distribution of a car. But it refers to the sharing of braking force between the front and rear wheels. In this case, you put 60% braking force on the front wheels and 40% on the rears (flowracers).
Manufacturers calibrate brake bias to optimize vehicle performance. But modifications or irregularities in the system can disrupt this balance.
Solution
Avoid modifying the brake adjustments to prevent uneven brake wear. Also, if you wish to keep both brakes healthy, inspect and adjust them regularly. I suggest you get assistance from a professional mechanic.
Brake Pad Materials
Brake pads are essential components of the disc brakes of vehicles (Wikipedia). But the materials of these parts can be worn at varying rates. For example, organic brake pads are softer and gentler on rotors but may wear out faster. Alternatively, semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads offer better performance and durability. But they can be harsher on rotors.
Solution
Organic, semi-metallic, ceramic – each has its unique charm, impacting brake wear rates. I suggest you choose them wisely for your car. You’ll be rewarded with a more balanced brake wear symphony.
Brake Cooling Systems
I assume your car brakes get more air to cool down faster. Excessive heat will cause uneven wear and tear if they don’t cool faster. Especially, the rear brakes often have less access to open air. That’s why they wear more than front brakes.
Solution
You can equip your car with an advanced brake cooling system (if the vehicle allows). Cars with this cooling system may experience more even brake wear.
Symptoms of Rear Brake Wear
Ah, my friends! How can you figure out that the rear brakes are wearing? Once again, I am the savior! You should identify the signs to maintain a safe and reliable front and rear braking system. But what are those?
Well, stay calm as you are. Some common indicators of wearing rear brakes are:
Squeaking or Squealing Noise
Do you get a high-pitched noise while applying the brakes? Usually, it comes from the small metal indicator in the brake pad. It warns the driver when the brake pad is worn, and you must replace it.
Grinding or Screeching Sounds
Again, the noise! Severely worn rear brake pads cause grinding noise when you brake the car. The origin of this noise is the direct contact of the metal backing of the brake pad and rotor. However, it shows brake pad wear (front/rear) and rotor damage.
Reduced Braking Performance
Worn rear brakes may cause longer stopping distances. They may not work well when you need them. Besides, you will need increased pedal effort.
Brake Pedal Vibrations
You may feel vibrations in the brake pedal or steering wheel when the rear brake wears. Usually, it indicates the rear brake rotor warping due to overheating.
Excessive Brake Dust
Check the rear wheels to see if they have an excessive brake dust buildup. The accelerated wear of the rear brake pad may cause more dust.
Unusual Brake Smell
Suppose you drive the car and get a burnt or acrid smell from the rear brakes. It may indicate that the brakes are overheating. Usually, this smell appears from the excessive use or worn brake pads. In such cases, you may need to inspect the rear brakes.
Final Words
As I wrap up the wild ride of “Why do rear brakes wear faster?”, I want to recall the things in this article. In detail, I have explained the symptoms and reasons for rear brake wear and tear. Besides, you can solve the problem quickly, as I mentioned them after each reason.
The last thing I want to add is that you should not forget to inspect the rear (and front) brakes to identify the symptoms. If you find any, try taking steps as fast as possible for a better riding experience and stability control.
I hope your chill dudes will work again without distracting you from staying on the right path. Now, go out there, embrace the art of smooth braking, and remember, safety first – brake like a pro, and let the good times roll!
