When it comes to your car, having reliable components is crucial for your safety. The braking system is one of the most important components, and it is responsible for bringing your vehicle to a safe stop. Getting the most out of your brakes and brake pads can save you time, and money, and keep your car safe and functional. At Brakes 4 Less, where we specialize in brake installation and repair, we understand the importance of your brakes, and we’ve put together a set of tips on how to expand the lifespan of your braking system.
Perform Regular Brake Inspections
One of the most essential keys to maximizing the life of your brakes is to get them inspected on a regular basis. Our team at Brakes 4 Less recommends having them checked at your scheduled oil changes, or every 6 months at least. During an inspection, mechanics will examine your brake pads, rotors, brake fluid, calipers, and other brake components. They search for any signs of wear, damage, or contamination. Catching issues while they’re still minor can mitigate the risk of larger issues later on. Getting regular inspections also allows for your brake parts to be cleaned and lubricated by the mechanics. The components on your car last longer when you get preventative maintenance done.
Replace Brake Pads Promptly
An essential part of brake maintenance is the brake pads. These are what grip the rotors to stop your vehicle. Friction can wear the brake pad material down over time, and if you don’t replace them early on, they can damage the rotors. Replacing your rotors is much more costly than replacing your brake pads, so it’s recommended that your pads be replaced when they’re down to 3/16 of an inch. When your tires are rotated, your brake pads can be inspected. As soon as you suspect that your pads are getting thin, schedule a brake inspection. Timely pad replacement can extend your brake pad lifespan.
Flush Your Brake Fluid Regularly
When it comes to your brake performance, brake fluid plays a vital role. It transfers the applied pressure to the brake pedal, and then to the calipers to engage the brake pads. Brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, though, which lowers its boiling point. Hard braking can cause low-quality fluid to boil and result in vapor lock, which can severely decrease braking ability. It’s recommended to flush your brake fluid every two years. At Brakes 4 Less, we can drain the old fluid and replace it with fresh brake fluid that meets manufacturer standards. This keeps the entire braking system free of corrosion.
Avoid Hard Braking
Your driving habits can greatly impact your brake’s lifespan. Braking aggressively can wear your pads and rotors down. Hard braking can build up a significant amount of heat and friction, which increases your wear and tear. The high heat levels can even cause your rotors to warp. Be sure to break early and gradually, allowing yourself plenty of time to stop. Smooth, even braking does less damage to your brake pads, and keeps your brake temperatures lower for better performance.
Don’t Ride Your Brakes
Riding your brakes is also a driving habit that can negatively impact your braking system. If you’re resting your foot on the brake pedal and applying constant light pressure, it will keep your pads in contact with the rotors when you’re not even actively braking. This constant friction wears the pad material and rotors down quicker. Avoid riding your brakes while you’re in traffic or going downhill. Let your brakes rest by removing your foot from the pedal whenever possible.
Clean Your Brake Parts
Your brake parts can become contaminated by road debris, dirt, and grime, which can lead to accelerated wear. When you get a brake inspection, mechanics can thoroughly clean the components to remove any debris and residue contaminating them. Be sure to clean your wheels and tires regularly to prevent brake dust buildup. If your brake fluid becomes contaminated, this can also degrade the performance. Our brake fluid flush service thoroughly cleans out any old fluid, and our other cleaning services help to extend your brake’s lifespan.
Use High-Quality Parts
Not all replacement parts for your car are high-quality, and this results in low-quality parts with shorter lifespans. Off-brand pads can wear down rapidly, and cheap rotors can warp under extreme heat. For the best results, it’s important to choose brake parts that are made by reputable brands. Our experts at Brakes 4 Less can help you choose the right pads and rotors for your vehicle and your driving style. Investing in well-made parts saves you money in the long run and offers better performance for your car.
Address Issues Quickly
It’s crucial to address potential brake problems rather than ignore them. Pay attention to any issues like squeaking, pulsating, grinding, and burning smells that can signal that your braking system needs maintenance. Tending to these problems ahead of time quickly minimizes more costly repairs in the future, as well as prevents potentially dangerous situations for you or other drivers.
Keeping your brakes in good shape saves you time and money and ensures your safety. By implementing these tips from our team of expert mechanics, the lifespan of your brakes can be extended. If you’re searching for a “brake shop near me,” Brakes 4 Less is here to help. We offer quality brake repair, replacement, and maintenance services you can count on. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
