Be a coaster. You don’t have to hit the brake every time you just want to slow down. When getting on the exit ramp of the freeway, coast down to 40 or so before even touching the brake. If you’re approaching a red light, coast for a little ways if you’ve still got a distance to go before the light. You’ll be surprised how easy it is. This may even save you a bit of gas.

Use one foot for driving. Some people use their left foot for the brake and their right foot for the accelerator. But this often leads to riding the brake while still accelerating. That’s one of the quickest ways to wear down your brakes.

Make the vehicle lighter. You don’t have to be a physics major to know that the more weight there is, the more power it takes to stop the inertia. Driver a lighter car, lose some weight or take out some of the heavier stuff in your car to save some wear on your brakes.

Change the brake fluid. Every once in a while, your brakes need to be flushed. Changing your brake fluid makes your brakes more efficient and effective. If you don’t know how to flush the brake fluid, have a local mechanic do it. But check with us first to make sure you don’t get overcharged.

Change your brakes at the first sign of trouble. When you start hearing a slight squeaking noise when you stop, it’s time to change your brakes. Or if you feel your brakes are getting too “soft,” get it done then. Waiting too long will only cost more and more money the longer you wait.