Some car owners must think they’re invincible. A 2021 survey revealed about 25% of motorists ignore brake problems and continue to drive. Yet, driving with worn parts can prevent you from stopping causing an accident. When you’re searching for the best auto brake repair near me, visit Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
4 Signs Indicating You May Need Brake Servicing
Although your brake system has several parts, replacing the pads is the most common brake repair. This is because your brakes rely on friction to stop your vehicle. When you press on the brake pedal, the pads press against discs or drums in the wheels to create friction. This friction creates a tremendous amount of heat which also wears the pads out.
If you notice any of the following signs, bring your car into an auto repair shop right away. Driving with any type of brake problem is extremely dangerous.
1. A Squealing Noise
Many brake manufacturers include a device on your brakes that squeals when your brake pads get too low. Once your pads wear lower than a safe level, brake wear indicators will come in contact with your rotor. This creates the squealing noise you’ll hear.
2. Grinding Noise
If you choose to ignore the squealing of your brake indicator, your pads will wear down dangerously low. Then, you’ll have metal scraping upon metal as your rotors become damaged.
3. Dashboard Indicator Light Illuminates
Many manufacturers include a brake dashboard indicator light. If this light illuminates, there’s a problem somewhere in your braking system. Depending on your car’s make and model, this can mean one of several issues:
- Worn brake pad
- Low brake fluid
- Parking brake issue
4. Your Brake Pads Are Less Than ¼ Of An Inch
Once brake pads wear down to ¼ of an inch, you need to replace them. Typically, you should be rotating your tires every six months. During this service, you can easily have your technician check your brake pads.
Your Brake Fluid May Need Replacing
While brake pads are the most replaced part, they’re not the only part that requires servicing. Modern cars use hydraulics for ease of braking. A specialized fluid moves through the system, applying pressure to the pads when you depress the pedal.
Typically, most brake fluids absorb moisture when exposed to air. This can happen even in your sealed system through brake lines or the reservoir. As time passes and your fluid absorbs more moisture, the water lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid. Thus, your stopping ability lessens.
Some automotive experts recommend changing your fluid every 2 years or 20,000 miles. Others less often. Check your owner’s manual for specific guidelines for your vehicle. However, if you’re experiencing brake problems, you shouldn’t wait until you reach your specific timeline. Moreover, if the fluid in your reservoir tank is dark brown or black, you should replace your fluid.
Other parts that may need servicing include your rotors, brake lines, calipers, or master cylinder. While manufacturers make these parts to last thousands of miles, mechanical failures can occur. Moreover, neglecting to change your fluid or pads can shorten the life of these other components.
Best Auto Brake Repair Near Me – FAQs
Searching for the best auto brake repair near me doesn’t have to be difficult. At Xpress Lube, we’ve been helping Kernersville residents maintain their vehicles for over 25 years. If you’re having issues with your brakes, bring it to us for a free brake check. We’ll give you a quote and answer your questions. Here, we answer a few commonly asked questions about brakes and our services.
How Long Should Brake Pads Last?
Typically pads can last anywhere from 30,000 to 80,000 miles. This wide discrepancy in longevity is due to 3 important factors:
- Highway/city driving
- Driving habits
- Brake pad material
Usually, you’ll use your brakes more frequently when you drive in urban areas. Additionally, some drivers have the habit of using their brakes more often than other motorists. Finally, manufacturers construct brake pads from 3 different kinds of material:
- Organic
- Semi-Metallic
- Ceramic
Each material has different characteristics of durability, performance, and price. For example, ceramic brake pads last much longer than organic ones. However, ceramic pads are also more expensive than organic pads. Talk to your technician about which choice is best for your car and driving style.
Does A Brake Job Take A Long Time?
Your braking system is a complex structure with different parts working together. To quote you a time frame or a price, we need to determine what your car needs. Before we begin working on your car, we’ll give you a detailed quote and estimated time frame.
What About My Parking Brake? How Often Should I Have It Checked?
Most motorists don’t use their parking brakes very often. Usually, drivers only use this brake when parked on a hill. Typically, this part will corrode and rust from infrequent use. To make sure it’s in good working condition, have your mechanic check it at least once a year.
What Other Services Do You Provide?
We’re a full-service auto repair shop. Whether you have a domestic or foreign vehicle, our ASE-certified technicians can perform these services:
Driving with brake problems is dangerous! When you need the best auto brake repair near me, trust Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville! To make an appointment, you can call us at 336-993-7697 or use our easy online form.
