How often should I change the brake pads on my Volkswagen Passat?

I have had my Passat for a few years now and have not replaced the brake pads yet. I am wondering how often I should change them for optimal safety and performance?

It is recommended to change your brake pads every 25,000-30,000 miles or as soon as you start hearing squealing or grinding noises while braking.

If you are a heavy driver or frequently drive in stop-and-go traffic, it may be necessary to change your brake pads more often, around every 20,000 miles.

On the other hand, if you primarily drive on highways and rarely use your brakes, you may be able to go longer between brake pad replacements.

Regardless, it is always important to regularly check your brake pads and replace them as needed to ensure your safety on the road.