Keeping safe in your vehicle includes maintaining your brake system. Waiting until you experience an issue can put you and other drivers in danger. When you need a brake change near you, rely on Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
The Importance Of Routine Brake Maintenance
Some careowners rely on their NC safety inspection to determine the health of their brakes. Alternatively, they may simply follow their vehicle’s owner manual and change the brake parts according to the manufacturer’s schedule.
This is unfortunate because brake parts can wear down unevenly without immediate symptoms. Hence, you might not notice a decrease in performance until you have a dangerous situation.
However, you may avoid unsafe driving occurrences and costly repairs with routine servicing. Having your mechanic perform regular, complete brake maintenance offers these benefits:
- Optimally performing components
- Dependable stopping power
- Avoidance of costly repairs due to neglect
- Extended component lifespan
- Retain the resale value of the car
Key Components Included In A Brake Change Near You
Often, basic servicing includes brake pad replacement and possibly rotor resurfacing. However, a complete brake job includes so much more:
- Replace the pads
- Resurface/replace the rotors
- Full system inspection
- Lubricate moving or sliding components
- Check/change the brake fluid
Usually, general guidelines for changing some components are longer than 12 months. For example, under normal driving conditions, you shouldn’t have to change your brake fluid for 2-3 years. However, your diving habits, environmental conditions, and pulling heavy loads can necessitate more frequent replacement.
Having your mechanic inspect all the braking components can help spot problems early. In turn, this helps avoid costly repairs and ensures your brakes are operating correctly.
Warning Signs It’s Time For A Brake Change Near Me
Braking generates friction, and ultimately heat. Both friction and heat cause brake pads and rotors to wear. However, certain driving conditions may cause these parts to wear down faster:
- Aggressive driving
- Stop and go traffic
- Roads with inclines
- Towing heavy loads
Furthermore, other factors can affect your braking performance, too. The chemicals used to salt winter roads cause rust and corrosion. Calipers are especially susceptible to rust buildup that can lead to sticking or seizing.
Additionally, brake part quality is crucial. Typically, premium components offer greater durability, quieter operation, and better performance than their cheaper counterparts.
Usually, as parts begin to fail, you can experience one or more of these signs:
- Grinding noise when you apply the brakes
- Brake pedal feels spongy
- Vibrations in the steering wheel
- Longer braking distances
- Pulling to one side when braking
- Illuminated dashboard indicator light
How To Find A Mechanic Specializing In Brakes Near You
Many consumers understand the necessity of checking for professional certification and reviews when searching for auto repair services. Let’s go beyond the basics and explore some equally important aspects.
What type of parts does the shop use?
In the automotive repair world, the part manufacturer can be the original carmaker (OEM) or another company (aftermarket). Some after-market manufacturers offer original factory quality parts. Others make cheaper components. Ask what brands the auto shop uses.
Can I get a detailed written estimate, including any potential additional charges?
Sometimes, automotive technicians find issues as they begin servicing your vehicle. For example, to properly inspect your braking system, the mechanic must remove your wheel. Then, the technician may discover problems with the rotors or calipers. Knowing the maximum bill upfront can help eliminate surprises.
Do you welcome questions?
Let’s face it, mechanics talk in a lot of technical jargon that most of us don’t understand. You have a right to ask questions about the repair so you’ll feel confident. An auto shop that cares about its customers will take the time to explain the issues until you understand them.
Brake Change Near Me FAQs
We understand your confusion about brake components and their proper maintenance. Therefore, we’ve answered a few commonly asked questions below.
How Much Should An Automotive Brake Job Cost?
As with most automotive repairs, the cost depends on the vehicle’s make, model, and year. Additionally, the required services will affect your price. Do you need just a brake pad replacement? Or do you need brake fluid replacement as well? Generally, you can expect to pay between $400 to $900 per axle.
How Do I Know If My Rotors Are Bad?
Typically, if you have hub caps that expose the rotors, you can visually inspect them. Look for cracks, rust, or a blueish discoloration. Also, run your finger vertically across the rotor’s surface to detect any grooves.
However, closed hub caps require removing the wheel to determine the rotor condition.
Why Choose Xpress Lube For Brakes?
Poorly performing brakes increase your chances of an automobile accident. Don’t take this risk of putting yourself or loved ones in danger. Visit a reputable auto shop, like Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville, for a complete brake job.
For over 25 years, we’ve been servicing the Piedmont area with fast, dependable service. Read what our customers say about us:
Mac and his team are honest, hard working and fair in all dealings I have had with them. They go above and beyond expectations. I have been a loyal customer for 5 years now! Check them out, you won’t be disappointed. Greg K.
This is a good place to take your car for major or minor services. JM C.
Mack made sure my car was fixed right! I can’t tell you how happy I am!! As a very satisfied customer I will be bringing my cars to him for all services needed! – Sheila D.
Call us today at 336-904-6319 to make an appointment to service your car’s brakes.
