You’re cruising along Main Street when suddenly, a car pulls out in front of you. Quickly, you step on the brake pedal to avoid hitting the other vehicle. Thank goodness your brakes are in perfect working order. However, even if they’re in good working condition today, eventually your brakes will wear. Hence, if you notice any problems with your brakes, it’s important to repair them right away. When searching for an auto shop to fix brakes near me, choose Havoline® Xpress Lube of Kernersville.
The Importance Of Changing Your Brake Fluid
Although many modern automobiles have disc brakes, some do have drum brakes on the rear wheels. While each uses a slightly different mechanism to stop the wheels from turning, both have parts that wear. Also, both use a hydraulic system to multiply force which requires fluid replacement.
Moreover, many mechanics recommend changing your fluid every 2 years or 30,000 miles depending on your driving conditions. Be sure to check your vehicle owner’s manual for a specific timetable unique to your automobile.
Structurally, your brakes rely on friction to stop your tires from turning. Friction generates heat which breaks down your fluid. Moreover, your brake fluid absorbs moisture through microscopic pores in hoses and seals. Over time, this moisture will reduce the performance of your fluid.
Furthermore, as little as 2% absorption of water can decrease brake fluids boiling point by 50%. A lower boiling point increases the chances of complete brake failure. Unfortunately, NHTSA attributes approximately 22% of all accidents relating to brakes. That’s nearly ¼ of all collisions.
Brake Parts That Wear
While the fluid is an important part of your braking system, many other parts need inspection and replacing too. The primary components, calipers, pads, and rotors, will wear down with use. Of course, your driving conditions will greatly affect their longevity.
Additionally, the master cylinder will also wear out over time. Using hydraulics, the master cylinder multiplies the pressure you apply to the brake pedal to stop your vehicle. When this component fails to regulate the flow of brake fluid, your brakes will fail.
Of course, automakers install a warning indicator light on your dashboard to let you know you’ve developed a brake problem. Braking systems also contain an indicator that squeals when the brake pads become too thin. Moreover, you may notice it takes longer to stop or that your brakes have a spongy feeling. You may even notice the car pulling to one side when you brake.
Driving with failing brakes is dangerous! If you suspect brake issues, bring your car down to Xpress Lube immediately. Our technicians will diagnose your issue and provide you with a detailed estimate for repair.
Performing Routine Maintenance Saves You Money
Typically, most car owners forget about brakes when thinking about routine maintenance. Yet, many mechanics recommend checking your brake system every 6 months or 3000 to 5000 miles.
Certainly, well-maintained brakes are essential for your safety. Moreover, regular maintenance can catch a small, inexpensive problem before it turns into a big costly one. For example, replacing worn pads or calipers may save you from replacing costly rotors.
Fix Brakes Near Me FAQs
Today’s automobiles contain many complicated parts of machinery. Understanding the importance of maintaining these parts is critical for your safety. Thus, we’ve comprised a list of our most frequently asked brake questions.
What Does A Brake Inspection Include?
Generally, a brake inspection includes a thorough examination of your entire system. At Xpress Lube, our technicians will perform a free brake inspection. During this, we’ll check the fluid for proper level and color. A dark color indicates it’s time to replace your fluid. While low levels of brake fluid may indicate a leak.
Additionally, we’ll check other components for wear. Sometimes, you may only need to replace your brake pads. Other times, you may also need to resurface your rotors as well.
Undoubtedly, the ability to stop is the most important safety feature in your car. Consequently, we take car repairs very seriously. Our ASE-certified mechanics can handle all your brake problems quickly and efficiently.
Do Anti-Lock Brakes Require Extra Maintenance?
ABS or anti-lock brakes are a safety feature on many modern vehicles. During an emergency braking situation, conventional brakes can lock up causing skidding. However, ABS has electronically controlled sensors to monitor wheel speed. This allows the driver to stop while maintaining control of their vehicle.
Sometimes, these sensors will fail. When this happens, an indicator light on your dashboard will illuminate. A bad sensor will affect your ability to stop. Thus, you must replace the bad sensor as soon as possible.
What Does It Mean To Bleed The Brakes And Is It Necessary?
Occasionally, you may get air in your brake fluid. Air can become trapped in your braking system in several ways:
- Improper servicing of brakes
- Excessively worn brake pads
- Leak in the system
Unfortunately, the air in your brake fluid lessens the hydraulic pressure and decreases your ability to stop your car. A mechanic who bleeds your system removes the air from the brake fluid.
Do You Offer Other Services Besides Brakes?
In addition to offering to fix brakes near me, we can perform over 30 other maintenance and repair services:
- Transmissions
- Wheel alignments
- Exhaust systems
- A/C repair
- Oil changes
- State inspections
- And more!
With our ASE-certified mechanics on the job, you know you’re getting quality service. Plus, we make it easy to schedule an appointment with our online form. You can also call us at 336-993-7697 and let one of our friendly staff members take care of you.
