How Long Do Semi Truck Brakes Last?

If you’re buying a wholesale used trucks for your fleet, you’ve probably asked yourself, “How long do semi truck brakes last?” The answer can vary widely depending on the usage of a truck. Generally, conventional S-cam brakes need to receive service every 250,00-300,000 miles but can be made to last longer with the right driving habits. International Used Truck Center covers the factors that contribute to semi truck brake life, when to seek semi truck brake maintenance, and more below.

How to Inspect for Brake Life

Proper semi truck brake maintenance should be considered upon every routine inspection of your semi truck. When a technician is working on your truck, they will inspect the brake linings to see if they are worn thin. In many cases, this happens at the 250,000-300,000 mile mark, but other factors play a part:

• Use the Wear Gauge: A semi truck brakes manufacturer provides a wear gauge, a useful tool to help predict how long the brakes will last. This gauge indicates how much the brake block has been worn down. When it reaches 50 percent, you should be able to calculate the amount of miles left.
• Routine Inspections: Using a friend to help out, check for worn out and damaged components as they apply the semi truck brakes. Alongside semi truck brake maintenance, routine use of the Driver Vehicle Inspection Report (DVIR) will help drivers know about issues before they become problems.

Factors that Affect Semi Truck Brake Life

Anyone that conducts semi truck brake maintenance will tell you that certain uses and driving habits will take significant miles off of your semi truck brake life. Sometimes, heavy-duty work just wears things out more.

• Local or Coastal: A truck that is making a lot of local stops will need brake parts replaced more frequently than a truck that is going across the country.
• Uses: Does your truck gothrough a ton of brake applications in a single use? If so, you’ll need to check on your semi truck brakes regularly.
• Seasonal Issues: Hot and cold weather have adverse effects on your brake pads, so keep the climate in mind when assessing your brakes.
• Driving Patterns: As many know, having a lead foot can wear down your equipment faster. Encourage yourself and others to drive efficiently and safely so you can preserve your semi truck brake life.

Find Used Trucks at International Used Truck Center

At every International Used Truck Center location, truck owners can expect more than great deals. We’re dedicated to informed service that helps you keep your truck and your fleet running smoothly, with information on when to change your oil and truck driving tips.Contact us today with any questions about brake maintenance and more!