Brake Repair, Replacement & Installation
At Ron’s Auto & RV, your safety is our top priority. The braking system in your vehicle is complex, critical, and demands expert attention. Whether you drive a car, truck, or RV, our ASE-certified brake technicians specialize in providing complete brake inspections, repairs, and replacements using high-quality parts, all backed by a parts and labor warranty.
Understanding Your Vehicle’s Brake System
Modern brake systems operate hydraulically and are typically composed of either disc brakes, drum brakes, or a combination of both. Newer vehicles often have disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear. Both systems require regular brake service as part of your scheduled maintenance to maintain braking power and avoid costly damage or unsafe driving conditions.
Routine brake inspections help identify wear and tear, allowing us to perform affordable brake jobs before serious problems develop. If your brake warning light is on or you notice any of the signs below, it’s time for a visual inspection:
- Difficulty stopping or delayed braking response
- Squeaking, squealing, or metal-on-metal grinding when braking
- Vehicle jerks, pulls left or right, or vibrates under braking
- Leaking brake fluid
- Soft or sinking brake pedal
- Illuminated ABS light or brake light
Brake Pads & Brake Shoes
Brake pads are part of the disc brake system and are one of the most commonly replaced components during a brake repair service. When pads wear down, they reduce your braking system’s effectiveness and can damage the brake rotors, leading to costly repairs.
In drum brake systems, brake shoes function similarly. Unlike pads, shoes can sometimes be refurbished rather than replaced. Rear brakes often use drum systems due to their affordability and manufacturing simplicity.
Brake Rotors & Drums
Your brake rotors work with the pads to create friction and slow your vehicle. Excessively worn pads can damage rotors, causing vibrations or brake failure. Regular maintenance prevents this.
In drum brake systems, brake drums serve a similar purpose. Warning signs include:
- Shaking from the rear during braking
- Reduced parking brake performance
- Vehicle pulling under braking
Brake Calipers & Wheel Cylinders
Calipers are essential to disc systems, pressing the brake pads against the rotors. There are two types:
- Floating calipers – more common and affordable, but more prone to damage from dirt and corrosion
- Fixed calipers – more durable and performance-oriented
In drum systems, wheel cylinders apply pressure to the brake shoes. These parts are known to leak over time and typically need replacement every 5–7 years.
Master Cylinder & Brake Fluid Maintenance
The master cylinder delivers hydraulic pressure to your vehicle’s brakes. Common signs of failure include:
- The brake pedal is going straight to the floor
- Sudden loss of braking power
- Warning lights (check engine or brake)
We recommend a brake fluid flush approximately every 25,000 miles. Dirty or low brake fluid can damage the system and impact ABS sensors.
Brake Boosters, Hoses, and Brake Lines
The brake booster multiplies the pressure from your foot on the brake pedal, making stopping effortless. A faulty booster can result in a hard pedal or unresponsive brakes.
Brake hoses and brake lines carry hydraulic fluid throughout the system. They can wear out, crack, or leak, causing uneven braking or fluid loss. These are typically replaced every 5–7 years or during a safety inspection.
Why Choose Ron’s Auto & RV for Brake Repairs?
As a trusted auto repair shop in Vancouver since 1976, we deliver professional brake repair services with a focus on customer service, quality, and safety. We offer:
- Complimentary brake inspections
- Same-day brake jobs on most vehicles
- Clear pricing on all parts and labor
- ASE-certified technicians
- Full-service auto repair including oil changes, wheel alignment, steering repair, and more
Whether you need new front pads, rear brakes, or a full brake system overhaul, our team will walk you through your options and take you for a test drive to confirm successful service.