As you’re driving around, you probably don’t pay much attention to your brakes. You count on them to be there as needed, subconsciously using them whenever you need to slow down behind another vehicle or come to a complete stop at a light. However, if you think about the consequences should your brakes suddenly quit working, you would realize how critical they are to your vehicle’s safety system. This is why it’s so important to stay current with your brake services.
As a full service automotive repair and maintenance shop, Havoline Xpress Lube understands what a vital role the brakes play on any car. The company’s trained and skilled technicians have been providing Kernersville, NC residents with the area’s most reliable brake services for many years. The different types of brakes are explained below, as well as why you shouldn’t skip having them maintained.
Types of Brakes
The two types of brakes that are utilized to stop a vehicle while driving are disc and drum. Disc brakes are found on either the two front wheels or all four. They have a rotor and a caliper, which holds disc brake pads. When friction is created between the pads and caliper, the car will slow down. Drum brakes are either placed on the two back wheels or all four. They consist of a brake drum, wheel cylinder, brake shoes, and brake return springs. When friction is created between the drum and shoes, the car is forced to slow down and stop.
Why Brake Services are Key
It’s likely that you use your brakes several times throughout one driving session. They’re needed at stoplights, stop signs, in traffic, and to help with parking. Every time you apply pressure to your brakes, especially at high speeds, you’re slowly wearing them down. Though they’re meant to last for a while, you never really know how worn down your brakes are until you have them checked out. That’s what makes it key to have brake services performed consistently by a professional. If you wait until you notice a problem, it could result in bigger issues that cost much more to repair or cause a serious accident.
Signs of Brake Trouble
There are a few signs to watch out for that may indicate it’s time to take your car in right away for brake services. Listen for any squeaking that occurs when you push on the brakes to stop. This can be an indication of worn brake pads. Also, feel for vibration in the steering wheel as you slow down and come to stop, which is a signal of warped rotors in the braking system. A strong burning odor is further evidence of brake trouble.
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the day-to-day responsibilities of life and fail to take care of all the different maintenance tasks that your vehicle requires to stay in good working order. Neglecting to get the regular brake services it needs, though, can significantly decrease the level of safety your car is providing you and your passengers. The trained mechanics at Havoline Xpress Lube have the qualifications and experience to perform all the brake services you might need, so you can have peace of mind about being on the road.
