How Much to Replace My Brake Pads?

Depending on the type of brake pads you get, replacing the brake pads for your Acura RDX can cost between $200 - $800. However, you don't have to replace both axles at once, saving you money if you decide to replace only the front or rear axle brake pads. If you are looking to bring your car in for service with us, check out our brake pad specials when scheduling so you can get the best deal possible!

When To Inspect and Replace Your Brake Pads

Keep up with your Acura RDX's maintenance means getting your brake pads inspected once a year or every 12,000 miles. This way you can ensure they are in good shape and won't cause damage to other parts of the braking system. When it comes to the lifetime of a brake pad, they can last between 25,000 - 60,000 miles depending on type and your own driving style. With such a wide range, it is important to keep up with your brake pad inspections to make sure you know the state of your brake pads.

You may also experience physical signs that it is time to replace your Acura RDX's brake pads. One sign is your car not staying straight when braking. In this case, an unevely worn down brake pad is not applying uniform pressure to the rotors, leading to the car stopping incorrectly. Furthermore, this wears out the associated rotor quicker, so the brake pad should be replaced to prevent damage to the rest of the braking system. Another sign is if you hear your brakes, grinding, squealing, or squeaking when braking.

Types of Brake Pads

The Acura RDX has three types of brake pads: Organic, Semi-Metallic and Ceramic. The difference between them are what the materials used to make them, how quickly they wear down, and how quiet they are when braking. Organic brake pads are made up of a rubber, fiberglass, and Kevlar blend, with some other composite materials. They don't generate a lot of friction heat when in braking, making them quite quiet. The downside of Organic brake pads are that they wear out more quickly than other types because of their material makeup.

Semi-Metallic brakepads are made of copper, iron and steel. Because of their robust material makeup, they have a very high heat tolerance that makes them ideal for frequent heavy braking. Unfortunately, they are quite loud compared to other brake pad types and generate a lot of dust. Semi-Metallic brake pads last shorter than ceramic brake pads before needing replacement, but longer than organic brake pads.

Lastly, ceramic brake pads are made of ceramics and copper fibers. When braking they produce little dust and are very quiet. Ceramic brake pads also last longer than both organic and semi-metallic brake pads. They do have some drawbacks, mainly a lower ability to absorb friction heat while in use. This transfers more heat to other parts of your Acura RDX's braking system, potentially wearing it out faster. When deciding on what type of brake pads you want, be sure to speak with one of our expert techicians to get a better idea of which type would best suit your individual needs.

Next Steps

It is important when taking care of your Acura RDX to always be keeping up to date with its maintenance, especially the brake pads are showing signs of neededing replacement. Ignoring your cars general maintenance can lead to major problems later on as worn parts may then also damage other nearby components, compromising the vehicles ability to drive.

If your Acura RDX brake pads need replacement, or you just haven't brought your car in for maintenance in a while, schedule using the link below and our team of expert technicians will make sure your ride stays safe and smooth.