Warranties
All products sold on AdvanceAutoParts.com are covered by warranty. Terms and length vary by product. Check individual product pages for the warranty length applicable to each product. Please see below for the full text of our warranty policies.
General Warranty Policy
Advance Auto Parts Limited Warranty - applies to all products not covered by one of the below warranties.
Warranties For Specific Products
Product Warranty Questions
Please contact Customer Care for any warranty questions.
Engine and Transmission Warranty Claims
If you are experiencing problems with an engine or transmission you purchased from Advance Auto Parts, please call (888) 286-6772, Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 5:30pm Eastern Time. For all other products, please contact Customer Care.
Filters and Manufacturer's Warranties
Consumer purchasers of automotive filters are sometimes told by an automobile dealer-s service writer or mechanic that a brand of replacement filter cannot be used in the consumer-s vehicle during the warranty period. The claim is made that use of the brand will "void the warranty," with the statement or implication that only the original equipment brand of filters may be used. This, of course, tends to cast doubt on the quality of the replacement filter.
That claim is simply not true. If the consumer asks for the statement in writing, he will not receive it. Nevertheless, the consumer may feel uneasy about using replacement filters that are not original equipment. With the large number of do-it-yourselfers who prefer to install their own filters, this misleading claim should be corrected.
Under the Magnuson - Moss Warranty Act, 15U.S.C. SS 2301-2312 (1982) and general principles of the Federal Trade Commission Act, a manufacturer may not require the use of any brand of filter (or any other article) unless the manufacturer provides the item free of charge under the terms of the warranty.
So, if the consumer is told that only the original equipment filter will not void the warranty, he should request that the OE filter be supplied free of charge. If he is charged for the filter, the manufacturer will be violating the Magnuson - Moss Warranty Act and other applicable law.
By providing this information to consumers, the Filter Manufacturers Council can help to combat the erroneous claim that a brand of replacement filter other than the original equipment will "void the warranty."
It should be noted that the Magnuson - Moss Warranty Act is a federal law that applies to consumer products. The Federal Trade Commission has authority to enforce the Magnuson - Moss Warranty Act, including obtaining injunctions and orders containing affirmative relief. In addition, a consumer can bring suit under the Magnuson - Moss Warranty Act.
What is a Core Charge ?
A "Core Charge" is similar to the deposit you might pay for a can or bottle of soda. In many states, to promote recycling, you are charged a deposit when you purchase a can of soda and you receive your deposit back when you return the empty can. Many automotive parts have a Core Charge, or Core Price, that works the same way as a soda can deposit.
Here's how the Core Charge works :
- The part you are purchasing contains a component that is recyclable
- The Core Charge deposit is charged at the time of purchase
- When the recyclable component from your old part is returned to us, the charge is refunded to you
To receive your Core Charge refund, you can do either of the following :
- Bring the part to any Advance Auto Parts store along with your receipt or packing slip
- Mail the part back to Advance Auto Parts following the directions including on your packing slip
Core Charges are often mandated by state legislature, and, as such, the actual core charge and taxes on the charge may vary depending on the state in which you buy your part. The Advance Auto Parts core charge presented to you online today with your item is representative of the most common core charge. If you have any questions, please call 1-877-ADVANCE (238-2623) or visit any Advance Auto Parts store.
What is a Core Charge ?
A "Core Charge" is similar to the deposit you might pay for a can or bottle of soda. In many states, to promote recycling, you are charged a deposit when you purchase a can of soda and you receive your deposit back when you return the empty can. Many automotive parts have a Core Charge, or Core Price, that works the same way as a soda can deposit.
Here's how the Core Charge works :
- The part you are purchasing contains a component that is recyclable
- The Core Charge deposit is charged at the time of purchase
- When the recyclable component from your old part is returned to us, the charge is refunded to you
To receive your Core Charge refund, you can do either of the following :
- Bring the part to any Advance Auto Parts store along with your receipt or packing slip
- Mail the part back to Advance Auto Parts following the directions including on your packing slip
Core Charges are often mandated by state legislature, and, as such, the actual core charge and taxes on the charge may vary depending on the state in which you buy your part. The Advance Auto Parts core charge presented to you online today with your item is representative of the most common core charge. If you have any questions, please call 1-877-ADVANCE (238-2623) or visit any Advance Auto Parts store.
Fitted Parts
Show only “exact fit” parts, which are specifically designed to fit your vehicle.
Not Fitted Parts
These are more general products that can fit a wide variety of vehicle makes and models, but may not fit your specific vehicle.
Disclaimer: We strive to keep all information accurate and up-to-date; however, product availability, pricing, promotions and store hours are subject to change without notice. Please contact Customer Care if you have any questions or corrections.
FAQs Concerning Brake Pads
What’s the difference between brake shoes and brake pads?
Brake shoes are curved metal blocks that are used with older drum brake systems. When the brakes are applied, the shoes press against the inner lining of the drum, creating friction. The friction causes the drums to slow, slowing the vehicle. Brake shoes are not as efficient as brake pads, but they are still used on some vehicles because they are inexpensive and they work well on rear brakes.
Brake pads are flat metal plates with a thick friction layer on one side. They are used with the disc brake systems that come with most newer cars. When the brakes are applied, hydraulic pressure is applied to the pads, causing them to squeeze the brake rotors, which stops the vehicle. Brake pads cool more efficiently than brake shoes, and they also work better in wet weather.
How long do brake pads last?
How long your brake pads last depends on what types of pads and rotors you have as well as your driving style. On average, brake pads tend to last about 50,000 miles, ranging from 30,000 miles on the low end to 70,000 miles on the high end. For most drivers, this comes out to almost four years. Some drivers may need to replace their pads after three years, while others may find their pads last over six years. Brake rotors may last two or three times as long as brake pads.
What causes brake pads to wear out?
The friction applied to brake pads gradually wears them down until they become thin. This erosion process can be accelerated by a number of factors, including the type of material your pads are made from, how often you drive on hills, how frequently you brake, how sharply you brake, and how tightly your wheel lugs are screwed. Once pads are too thin to use, your car becomes dangerous to drive. If you continue using your car in this condition, eventually your brake rotors can become damaged, which will require you to replace your entire braking assembly instead of just your pads.
Buy replacement brake pads online or visit your local Advance Auto Parts store and have one of our knowledgable Team Members help you.
Signs You Need New Brake Pads
There are several indicators that can let you know to check your brake pads to see if they need replacement:
- Squealing noise when you drive that goes away temporarily when you press the brakes: This can be a warning sign from your pad’s wear indicator that your pads are getting thin.
- Screeching sound when braking: This can indicate your pads’ metal shim is rubbing your rotors.
- Grinding sound when braking: This can indicate that your pad is completely worn down and your disc and caliper are rubbing together. If this is the case, more than just your pad will need replacement.
- Clicking noise when the brake pedal is pressed or released: This can be a sign your pads are wobbling.
- Delayed stopping time (brake fade): This can be caused by long-term driving patterns that habitually overheat your brakes, such as frequently braking for a long period when traveling downhill.
- Car nose pulls to one side when braking: This can be a sign your brake pads have worn unevenly.
- Pedal vibrates when braking: This can indicate the binding resin on your brake pads has gotten hot and smeared unevenly over your discs (glazing).
- Brake pads look too thin: If the visible outside of your pads look less than a quarter-inch thick, they are getting too thin.
- Rotors show deep grooves: This is a sign your pads need to be replaced, and your rotors may also need to be replaced or turned.
Brake Pad Types
There are several major types of brake pads that have come into use since asbestos pads were replaced:
- Non-asbestos organic
The first alternative to asbestos pads was pads made of organic materials such as carbon, rubber and glass. These have the advantage of being cheap and quiet, but they overheat easily and wear out quickly, as well as causing your pedal to feel squishy. - Semi-metallic
These pads have metals such as iron, steel, and copper incorporated into their friction material. They can handle heat better than organic pads, provide a firmer feel, give better performance and are relatively inexpensive, but they also require a break-in period, generate brake dust, and are noisy. - Low-metallic non-asbestos organic (NAO)
These combine organic material with a small amount of metal mixed in. They can tolerate heat better than purely organic pads and deliver better performance, but also generate brake dust and noise. - Ceramic
These pads can endure heat, making them long-lasting plus they generate less brake dust and noise. Their main drawback is being expensive. They also can be noisy when cold.
How to Install Brake Pads
Replacing brake pads is a relatively easy process that takes approximately one to two hours per axle. It involves removing the lug nuts, wheels, caliper fasteners, and calipers in order to remove and replace the pads. See the Advance Auto Parts blog for step-by-step instructions on how to install brake pads and brake shoes. Be sure to follow these best practices when changing pads:
- Prior to changing pads, turn off the vehicle and depress the brake pedal 10 to 20 times. This will release residual pressure in your braking system.
- Support your vehicle correctly on jack stands when loosening lug nuts and wheels.
- Check for brake fluid leakage and rotor damage while changing your pads.
- Clean your brake assembly.
- Note your pads’ original location before removing clips.
- Hang removed calipers with wire or bungee cord so they’re not dangling from the brake line while you’re working.
- Apply grease to your new clips to prevent squeaking.
How to Choose the Right Brake Pad
When it comes to choosing between metallic and ceramic pads, it’s best to replace your pads with the same type your manufacturer originally installed. Don’t upgrade pads without checking with your manufacturer. As far as picking brake pad brands, choose a brand whose standard pads perform well in tests.
Additional FAQs
Are there any preventive steps I can take to extend the life of my brake pads?
There are several things you can do to make your brake pads last longer:
- Avoid speeding, since braking from high speeds puts more stress on your pads.
- Use your right foot to brake to avoid leaving your left foot on the brake.
- Start coasting to a stop earlier rather than waiting until the last minute to brake.
- Maintain distance behind cars to reduce the need to brake suddenly.
How much will it cost to replace my brake pads?
Brake pads themselves can cost anywhere from $10 to $100. Getting your brake pads replaced averages about $150 per axle, with costs ranging from $100 to $300 per axle. If you need to replace other parts such as calipers and rotors, a complete brake job averages $500, with costs ranging from $300 to $1,000.
Should I replace my brake pads myself?
You can do a brake pad replacement yourself if you have mechanical experience. If you are inexperienced, it's best to have a professional change your brake pads.
Should I get my rotors turned when I replace my brake pads?
The best practice is to get your rotors turned whenever you replace your brake pads. This will optimize your pad wear and breaking performance without costing you the expense of new rotors. However, it also shortens the lifespan of your rotors and makes them more susceptible to overheating and brake fade, so be aware of the tradeoff.