Everybody wants the most bang for their buck when it comes to everything, even your brake pads. But what if there were tips and tricks to make your brake pads last as long as possible? Edmunds.com shared their take on brake pad life elasticity.

1. Speed Kills.
   Stops from high speed are the mortal enemy of brakes. And a little more speed hurts more than you can imagine. Stopping from 65 mph rather than 55 forces the brakes to dissipate about a third more energy.
2.  No Lefties.
   Use only your right foot on the brake pedal. I often see cars cruising at a constant speed — or accelerating away from me — with brake lights either constantly illuminated or glowing like lonely lightning bugs. By braking with only your right foot, you’ll avoid simultaneously pushing both pedals.
3.  Be a Coaster
   Coasting is a surprisingly easy way to get rid of a lot of brake-killing speed.
4. Memory Factor
   Memorize places where other drivers inappropriately slow down. Examples include hills which come as a shock to people who have been driving that same road for 10 years, and gentle freeway bends that many mistake for hairpin turns. Often, you’ll have to coast down to their pace. Plan ahead and you might be able to change lanes around them. They’ll re-pass you on the next downhill or straightaway, but you will have used less brakes and gas.
5.  Look Up and Save.
   Look far enough ahead and you’ll be able to correctly time stoplights, notice traffic backing up or see cars slowing on an incline that’s just become visible.
6. Don’t Join In.
   Many drivers brake just because the guy in front did. And the first driver touched his brake for no good reason. It’ll take a bit of practice to learn to coast when others brake inappropriately, especially if you weren’t looking far enough ahead.
7.  Lose Some Weight.
8. Don’t carry unnecessary stuff. A heavier vehicle is harder on brakes. And tires. And gas.
9. Flush It.
   Brake fluid needs to be periodically changed. In mechanic-speak it’s called bleeding and flushing. Renew your brake fluid, especially if you have an older vehicle or one you purchased used. You gain nothing if you save brake material but the insides of the system rot away. While some mechanics challenge its cost-effectiveness, brake bleeding is an inexpensive, easy task for a do-it-yourselfer.
10. Upgrade and Specialize (This is important!)
    Don’t complain if bargain brakes wear out quickly, but don’t expect the most expensive pads to last forever. Today’s brake pads are extremely complex. They may contain a dozen or more components, and are designed for specific uses. Brake material that best survives heavy-use, high-heat situations may perform poorly for drivers who emphasize economy. A good mechanic or auto parts store should be able to match your desires with the right brakes.
11. Be Frugal, Not Foolish.
    Trying to extend brake life too long will cost big money. If metal touches metal, frugality becomes foolish. A good time to inspect brake material thickness is when you have your tires rotated.

All of these tips above are great for making the life of your brakes last a long time. It is imperative to keep all of these tips in mind when driving out on the road. The best tip in my opinion is number 9, never settle for cheap brake pads! Safety is most important.

Did you agree with these tips? Leave your comments below.