How long should brake pads last on a Pontiac Sunfire?

My front brake pads were replaced about 30,000 miles ago. I took my car in for an oil change and basic inspection at an auto shop, and they said that the front pads are 80% worn, and the rotors are grooved, and the front pads and rotors all need to be replaced. They are estimating $250 total for this repair. This seems too soon for them to be so worn since I do mostly highway driving and I’m light on the brakes. The brake pads are not making any noise yet. If the pads and rotors are indeed this damaged, shouldn’t my brakes be making an awful noise?

30,000 miles is excellent for a front wheel drive car. My best advice is to have another shop take a look and give you an estimate. If you aren’t feeling anything wrong with the brakes it doesn’t mean the pads can’t be worn. But you may not need to buy new rotors.

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