Having your brakes serviced is essential to maintaining your car and prolonging its life. The frequency of brake servicing depends on a variety of factors, including the make and model of your car, your driving habits, and the type of brake pads you have installed. It is crucial to have your brakes serviced regularly to ensure that they are in optimal working order and to prevent costly repairs down the line.
If you need more convincing when it comes to servicing your brakes, look no further than our pointers below.
How Does Your Car’s Braking System Work?
Your car is equipped with brakes at both the front and the back. Rotors, which perform the function of a braking mechanism, are utilized by the vehicle’s front brakes. Although the brakes in the back also employ rotors, many car manufacturers have switched to using drum brakes instead, which may expand as needed.
When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, the mechanism that activates your brake fluid is activated. The brake fluid is then forced via tubes and into the brakes themselves. When the brake fluid reaches the front of your car, a caliper will begin to apply pressure to the rotor by pressing the brake pad against it. Because of this movement, your tires may become more worn down over time. This presents an excellent opportunity to seek assistance from the dealership that is closest to your location.
Clear Indications That Your Brakes Need to Be Serviced
Even if you are a great driver and only drive on perfectly smooth roads, the brakes on your vehicle will still wear down over time. If you put off replacing the brake pads on your vehicle for an extended period of time, you could end up causing major damage to the system. As soon as the brake pads on your vehicle get too worn, the vehicle will no longer provide any protection from on-road risks.
There are a number of warning indications that indicate your brake pads need to be repaired, including the following:
- When applying pressure to the brake pads, there may be pulsing or vibrations.
- Vehicles that are stopped may swerve left or right.
Warning Signs of Wear and Tear on the Brakes
An inspection should be performed every 20,000 to 60,000 miles or once every six months as part of the routine maintenance of your braking system (whichever comes first). When getting their tires changed, many motorists also get their brakes inspected as part of the process. If you frequently drive on damaged or uneven roads, you should probably have your brakes inspected more frequently.
The following are some of the telltale signals that you should get your brakes examined closer to the 20,000-mile mark rather than at the higher end of the range of miles traveled:
- Driving primarily on city streets as opposed to highways
- Plenty of driving on slopes with lots of abrupt turns
- Driving on a lot of mountainous terrains, where it is frequently essential to use the brakes going downhill
- Using an inexpensive braking system while driving
Car Brake Upkeep, as well as Preventative Measures
When determining whether or not to have a professional inspect your vehicle’s brake system, it is far better to do so for prevention rather than as a reaction to a harmful experience. Take extra precautions by inspecting the condition of your braking system approximately every 10,000 miles.
When you take your vehicle in for any significant servicing, the brake pads and calipers will be removed so that everything can be properly cleaned and maintained. Ensure that this task is conducted approximately every 30,000 miles. At this point, your mechanic will be able to inspect the level of wear and tear on your brake pad. After ensuring everything is in working order, the technician will lubricate the system.
Conclusion
It is important to have your brakes serviced regularly to ensure they are functioning properly. Depending on your driving habits and vehicle type, you may need to have your brakes serviced more or less often. However, as a general rule, you should have your brakes serviced at least once a year.
If you notice any problems with your brakes, such as squealing or grinding noises, you should have them checked by a professional as soon as possible.
If you are looking for a trusted car service center offering brake service in Hoover, AL, look no further than the experts of Hoover Automotive. We specialize in oil change, auto repair, engine repair, tire change, among many others. Contact us today for more information about our services.