Semi brakes are designed to do a lot of work. They provide the stopping power for semi-trucks and other large trucks when they’re hauling heavy loads, so it’s no surprise that brakes need frequent maintenance to keep truckers safe on the job.
Brakes will last on average for about 40,000 miles before needing replacement (about every 18 months), however, many factors affect this. Additionally, you may need to do regular inspections to get the most life out of them.
Semi-truck brakes should be inspected and adjusted regularly. We’ll discuss the process behind inspecting your semi’s brakes to help them last their complete life. Additionally, we’ll touch on the cost and some factors that can affect your semi-truck brake life.
How Often Do Semi-Truck Brakes Need to Be Replaced?
Often damaged or worn pads can be replaced without replacing all four brake shoes at once. This saves money by not having to replace an entire set as often. It increases your cost savings with each inspection you take care of yourself rather than at a repair shop.
Semi-truck brakes should be replaced every 40,000 miles or 18 months. Brakes also need frequent inspection for wear and tear between brake applications.
For semi brakes, it’s essential to know the following:
- Brakes need a frequent inspection for wear and tear between brake applications (applicable for all vehicles).
- Air in the braking system can cause a soft pedal feel, when applying pressure – this is an indication of low brake fluid levels, which need to be repaired as soon as possible.
The key takeaway here is that while semi-truck brakes are designed to last long periods of time without needing maintenance, they still require regular attention if you want them functioning correctly at all times. The more care and respect paid to your tire brakes, the longer they will last.
What Factors Affect Semi-Truck Brake Life?
The number one factor affecting brake life is age; as we mentioned above, most brakes have an average lifespan of around 40-45K miles which means it won’t take too long for them to start wearing out. All semi-truck drivers know how important it is to maintain brakes for a safe drive.
An important factor that affects semi-truck brake life is the type of brakes it uses. Drum brakes will need to be changed every 20-25K miles while disc brakes will last up to 45-55K miles before they need replacing or servicing.
No matter what kind of brakes your semi-truck has, it’s always crucial that you keep brake fluid topped off and ensure no leaks anywhere in the system. Drum brakes take more frequent attention than disc brakes but keeping an eye on all systems ensures any wear and tear can be minimized as much as possible, which means less downtime for repairs or replacements.
How Much Does It Cost to Change Brakes on A Semi-Truck?
Semi brakes typically last between 20k and 55k miles, and it can be a costly repair to replace them. Drum brakes cost significantly less but must be changed every 20-25K miles, while disc brakes will last up to 45-55K.
Expect semi-truck brake jobs to cost $250-$400 per axle on average. Heavy-duty trucks require more expensive repairs if they often tow or haul a lot.
Drum brakes take more frequent attention than disc brakes but keeping an eye on all systems ensures any wear and tear can be minimized as much as possible, which means less downtime for repairs or replacements.
How Do You Check a Trailer Brake on A Semi-Truck?
Brakes need to be checked regularly by an expert because if you wait until there is a problem, it will cost more money and time in terms of lost wages while the brakes are being repaired.
To check a semi’s brakes, make sure they are firm and have good contact when pressed. Check the brakes by turning with your foot pushing down–it should feel spongy right away. Check for brake fluid on the ground–if you see any, there’s a leak in the system, which should be fixed right away.
If everything checks out good and your brakes work as expected when turned with foot pressure, then that means your brakes are in good shape! It’s essential to keep up with regular maintenance because they will need fewer repairs or replacements over time if addressed earlier rather than later.
Conclusion
The brakes on your semi-truck are like the brakes on any other vehicle – if they work when you press them with just your foot, then that means everything is working as expected. It’s essential to keep up with regular maintenance, so brakes last longer and require fewer repairs or replacements over time.
Experts estimate most brakes will need replacement about every 40,000 miles (or 18 months). The critical thing to remember here is that brakes require regular inspections, so you know when it’s time for a new set of pads or rotors.