Why rear brakes seem to wear quickly in modern vehicles

It’s becoming increasingly common for rear brake pads to show noticeable wear earlier in a vehicle’s life.

While this may seem unusual to customers familiar with older models, it is a normal and expected outcome on today’s advanced vehicles — and not a cause for concern. Regular maintenance, including inspecting disc brake pads and rotors, is essential for ensuring braking safety and efficiency.

What’s driving the change? Modern vehicles, despite their advanced engineering, require consistent upkeep to perform at their best. They are equipped with sophisticated systems designed to enhance safety, comfort, and performance. In various Mitsubishi Motors vehicles, these systems can include:

  • Mi-Pilot Adaptive Cruise Control
  • Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC)
  • Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Electronic Parking Brakes
  • Hill-Hold Assist
  • Hill Descent Assist

These technologies rely heavily on the braking system — especially the rear brakes — to deliver smooth and controlled operation. Brake modulation is a key part of how these systems function, and they often engage automatically, without the driver’s input.

As these vehicle systems evolve, automotive manufacturers across the industry are observing similar rear brake wear. Several other factors are contributing to increased or earlier brake wear:

  • Increased Vehicle Weight: Modern SUVs and EVs carry more weight, placing greater demand on braking systems.
  • Electronic Parking Brakes and Hill-Hold Functions: These features can apply slight, sustained brake pressure that contributes to gradual rear pad wear — especially in stop-and-go driving.
  • Urban Traffic and Driving Habits: Frequent short trips, heavy city traffic, and abrupt braking can accelerate wear, particularly at the rear.
  • Automation and Brake Modulation: Safety systems frequently apply braking pressure to maintain speed, traction, and distance — all adding to normal wear patterns.

By following Mitsubishi’s maintenance schedule and performing simple tasks at home, you can keep your vehicle running safely and efficiently for years to come. Regular care ensures reliability, protects your investment, and keeps you ready for any journey.

Beyond scheduled inspections, there are a few tell-tale signs that it might be time to have your brakes checked. If you hear a squealing, grinding or scraping noise when you apply the brakes, this often indicates worn pads. A vibrating steering wheel or brake pedal when braking can also be a sign of issues with your rotors. Additionally, if your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, or if the brake pedal feels spongy or requires more pressure than usual, these are all indicators that a professional inspection is due. A full maintenance inspection, which includes checking fluids, brakes and filters, is recommended, especially before long drives.

To help manage customer expectations and improve satisfaction, Mitsubishi Motors dealerships now offer multiple lines of brake pads to suit different needs. One of the newest and most customer-focused options is the Limited Lifetime Replacement Brake Program. This offers customers the option to pay for the brake pads or rotors once — and only pay labour for future replacements when wear occurs. It’s designed to:

  • Support drivers who experience more frequent brake wear
  • Offer cost-effective maintenance over time
  • Improve satisfaction by reducing the long-term cost of ownership

Manufacturers set schedules to change engine oil and check certain parts for wear. Regular maintenance keeps the vehicle safe and reliable, and extends its longevity.

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