Your brakes are arguably the most important safety feature of your car. As such, they need to be in perfect condition to guarantee your security on the road when you get behind the wheel of your vehicle. Unfortunately, brakes are often neglected; as a result, they can experience wear and tear much faster than other parts of your car.
There are a few simple things you can do to preserve your brakes and prevent wear and tear and the need for brake repair/replacement.
1. Get Your Brakes Inspected Regularly
Many people only think to have their brakes inspected when there is a problem, but it may be too late by then. It is much better to get your brake components checked on a regular basis, preferably once a year or every 20,000 – 30,000 miles. This way, any potential problems can be detected early and repaired before they cause an accident. Additionally, regular brake inspections can help to prolong the life of your brakes by catching minor issues before they become big ones. So next time your car goes in for an oil change or tune-up, be sure to ask the mechanic to take a look at your brakes as well. Your safety may depend on it.
2. Lighten Your Load
Brakes can be put under a lot of strain, especially if you carry around a lot of extra weight. The heavier your car is, the harder your brakes must work to stop. This can lead to premature wear and tear and in some cases, brake failure. So if you want to preserve your brakes and keep them in good condition for as long as possible, one of the best things you can do is lighten your load. This means removing any unnecessary items from your car that you don’t need on a day-to-day basis. Not only will this reduce the strain on your brakes, but it will also improve your gas mileage. So it’s a win-win!
If you have to haul heavy equipment or trailers frequently, getting your brakes inspected and serviced more frequently than the average vehicle is important.
3. Avoid Slamming Your Brake Pedal
Being mindful when you use your brakes can help to preserve them. For instance, avoid slamming on the brakes or sudden stops whenever possible. Instead, gently press down on the pedal to slow down gradually. This will help to prevent any unnecessary wear and tear. Additionally, try not to ride the brake while driving; this will also lead to premature wear. Such small things may not seem like much, but they can add up and significantly shorten the lifespan of your brakes.
4. Drive Cautiously
Your driving habits also affect how long your brakes will last. If you’re someone who likes to speed or drive recklessly, then you’re putting unnecessary strain on your brakes. Not only is this dangerous, but it will also cause your brake pads to wear out much faster. So, if you want to preserve your brakes, driving cautiously and within the speed limit is important.
5. Keep Up With Maintenance
Of course, one of the best ways to preserve your brake pads/brake system components (or any part of your car, for that matter) is to keep up with regular maintenance. This means taking your vehicle in for scheduled check-ups and servicing, as well as addressing any issues that may come up along the way. By staying on top of things, you can catch potential problems early on and prevent them from becoming more prominent. Your vehicle is a system, so be sure to follow a regular servicing schedule.
Common Signs Your Brakes Need to Be Replaced
There are warning signs that indicate the need for new pads or rotors should they become compromised in between maintenance service intervals. The most common replacement warning signs include:
- Difficulties braking
- Squeaking and squealing when braking
- Grinding when braking
- Car jerking when braking
- Brakes resistant to braking
- Leaking brakes
- Pulling from left or right when braking
How often should I take my brakes for maintenance?
It’s generally recommended that you take your brakes in for maintenance every 20,000 to 30,000 miles. However, this may vary depending on the make and model of your car, as well as your driving habits. If you’re not sure how often to get professional brake services, it’s best to consult with your mechanic. They will be able to give you specific advice based on your car and driving habits.
Your Local Automotive Professionals
Whenever you feel your car brakes are not responding as they should, it is always best to take it to a professional mechanic for proper maintenance and/or repair. Ron’s Auto & RV Service Center is your one-stop auto and RV brake repair shop. Our family-owned business is dedicated to safety and uncompromising customer service. Visit our shop or give us a call today to learn more about what we can do for you!
If you are experiencing trouble with the following:
- Brake Shoes & Pads
- Brake Rotors & Drums
- Brake Calipers
- Brake Wheel Cylinders
- Brake Master Cylinders
- Brake Boosters
- or your Brake Hoses and Lines, give us a call immediately. The longer you wait, the more damage can occur, which can cost more money to fix.
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