According to NHTSA, a significant number of car accidents are due to brake issues. This is unfortunate because maintaining your brakes is relatively simple and easy. Instead of hoping your parts are in good condition, have a mechanic look over your vehicle. When you need a free brake inspection near me, bring your car to Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
Parts Of Your Braking System That May Need Replacement
Due to the repeated use of your braking equipment, parts naturally wear out. A yearly inspection will uncover any problems and worn components. During a brake inspection, your technician will examine the following parts:
1. Pads
This part is the most replaced part of your braking system. Each time you step on the brake pedal, your calipers squeeze the pads against the rotors. Over time, the heat and friction generated from compressing on the wheels causes the pads to wear down.
2. Rotors
Rotors are metal discs attached to the wheels. Along with the brake pads, rotors use friction to slow and stop your car.
If you neglect to maintain your brakes, your pads may wear away to the metal backing plate. Then when you step on your brake, it’s the metal backing plate pressing against the rotors. Now, instead of just having to replace your pads, you’ll have to change your rotors too.
3. Calipers
Brake calipers hold the pads in place. They’re like clamps that squeeze the pads against the rotors. Under normal driving conditions and maintenance, calipers will last a long time. However, if you fail to routinely change your brake pads, you can weaken this component. Worn-out brake pads generate too much heat which damage calipers.
4. Fluid
Your car’s braking system relies on hydraulics for ease of stopping. The hydraulic fluid naturally absorbs moisture from the air through the lines and overflow tank. As it does, water in the fluid lowers the boiling point of the fluid affecting your stopping ability.
Additionally, as brake fluid ages and becomes contaminated, it changes from a light yellow to dark brown color. Typically, you can check the color by looking at the reservoir.
5. Lines And Hoses
Brake lines and hoses transport fluid to the wheels thereby transmitting pressure to activate the brakes. The brake lines are metal tubes that run the length of your vehicle while hoses are short rubber pieces. Exposure to road debris and de-icing chemicals can damage both. Periodically washing your undercarriage can help avoid corrosion.
However, these parts can suffer deterioration from the inside as well. Metal brake lines can corrode on the inside as the fluid absorbs water. Additionally, rubber hoses have an inner lining that can break down with exposure to moisture.
6. Master Cylinder
The master cylinder is a pump that pressurizes and directs the brake fluid through the system. It contains pistons and seals to help regulate the pressure and flow of the fluid. With constant use, these parts will wear out requiring replacement.
7. Wheel Speed Sensors
Due to added safety, NHTSA mandated that cars come equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). This system prevents your car from skidding when you apply the brakes. One of the components of ABS is wheel speed sensors. Typically, each wheel has at least one speed sensor. Accumulated dirt and grease can cause your car’s traction and stability controls to turn off. Also, your dashboard indicator light may illuminate.
8. Parking Brake
Separate from your braking system is the parking brake. Completely mechanical, this brake uses cables and levers. Water, dirt, and de-icing chemicals can cause the cables to corrode. Infrequent usage can also hasten the failure of your parking brake.
Free Brake Inspection Near Me FAQs
Does Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville really offer a free brake inspection near me? Absolutely! We’d be happy to do one for you. Below, we answer a few commonly asked questions about brakes and our services.
How Long Will It Take To Check My Car’s Brakes?
Usually, a brake inspection takes about 30 minutes. However, if your technician finds something wrong, your vehicle will need servicing or repairs. Different maintenance tasks take varying amounts of time. If we uncover a problem during your inspection, we’ll let you know right away the cost and time commitment.
Can My Driving Habits Affect The Longevity Of My Brake System?
Sometimes, you can adjust your driving habits to extend the life of your brakes. For example, when driving down steep inclines downshift instead of using your brakes. Also, leave plenty of space between you and the driver in front of you to avoid hard stops.
How Often Do I Need My Brake Fluid Changed?
Some automakers recommend changing your brake fluid every 20,000 miles while others every 3 years. Generally, you should follow your manufacturer’s guidelines found in your owner’s manual. If you’re not sure if you need to change your brake fluid, bring it to us. We’ll look at your fluid and make a recommendation specific to your vehicle.
What Other Services Do You Provide?
Our ASE-certified mechanics can service and repair both foreign and domestic vehicles. For over 25 years, residents of Kernersville, Walkertown, High Point, and other nearby towns have trusted us with their cars. Plus, in addition to maintaining your car’s mechanical systems, we also have a modern car wash to clean the exterior.
If you’re experiencing braking issues, don’t wait! For a free brake inspection near me and a whole lot more, visit Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville. Call us at 336-993-7697 to make an appointment.
