The brakes in a Toyota Prius work a lot like those in other cars. They stop your hybrid by clamping brake calipers to brake rotors, creating the resistance that does the stopping. However, calipers and rotors can't press together without brake pads because they'd get damaged. Your Toyota Prius probably has one of four types of brake pads. Organic brake pads are for normal driving, dependable, easy on rotors, low on dust production, and inexpensive. Ceramic brake pads are better bad weather, they don't make a lot of noise, and their dust isn't as sticky. Metallic brake pads withstand higher heat, feel firmer, and withstand brake fade. Carbon fiber brake pads, the toughest and best performers, tolerate extremely high temperatures and deliver the most stopping power. Most cars use either the organic or the metallic kind. Either way, no brake pad lasts forever, unfortunately.

When Do You Replace Brake Pads in a Toyota Prius?

Usually every 40,000 to 50,000 miles, but it's a good idea to look for symptoms of brakes that are going bad. They include warning lights, worn-out or damaged pad surfaces, whining brakes, taking longer to slow down and stop, vibration, and grinding. The last two are the worst signs. They tell you that your rotors are warping and likely getting damaged because your brake pads have completely worn out. If you need to get new brake pads, be sure to order genuine OEM. Brake pads made by Toyota come guaranteed to fit your Prius. Our auto parts store has a wide selection, and you can buy a set right here online, today.