Top Tips to Maintain Your Car’s Brake System
Did you know that driving a car with a faulty brake system not only compromises your safety but is also illegal? You may never have paid close attention to how your brakes work or taken cognizance of the signs of a malfunctioning braking system. However, this can spell the difference between life and death. Here are some tips to maintain your car brakes and increase longevity.
Have Your Brake Fluid Levels Regularly Checked and Maintained
During your car maintenance appointments, ensure that your brake fluid levels are checked. Do you know where your vehicle’s brake fluid reservoir is situated? It is calibrated with level marks. Always ensure it’s filled to the recommended level. It’s also critical that you only use the recommended brake fluid. If you’re unsure of the type of brake fluid to use in your car, refer to your owner’s manual.
Have Your Brake Lines and Master Cylinder Inspected Regularly
The brake lines and master cylinder are two key components of your braking system that carry brake fluid from the reservoir to individual brake lines. You should have them regularly checked for leaks, corrosion, and any other problems.
Brake Pad Replacement
Brake pads are prone to excessive wear due to extreme friction and heat. Your car may be fitted with brake pads that you can easily examine from outside, but in some vehicles, they are hidden. It’s important that you have your brake pads checked when you go for auto repair service. They should have even wear and be at least 5 millimetres thick. Whenever you are having your brake pads replaced, ensure you get the best quality to ensure durability.
Have Your Rotors or Discs Checked
Your rotors should always be inspected with your brake pads because these components are always in contact. Rotors should have a smooth surface. Grooves on a rotor indicate that brake pads are wearing away the rotors surface. You can have your rotors resurfaced. However, if the damage is extensive, you need to have new ones installed. Remember to always have new brake pads installed after getting new or resurfaced rotors.
Key Tips to Improve The Longevity of Your Braking System
- Avoid braking at high speed. Abrupt braking at high speed causes premature brake pad wear. Imagine coming to a stop from 150 mph; your brakes will dissipate an excessive amount of energy, causing premature wear.
- Never two-foot your pedals. This may seem obvious, but quite a number of people hit the brakes with the left foot while the right one is on the gas pedal. This is a bad habit that causes premature brake wear.
- Intuitive driving. Driving at lower gears when descending a hill places less strain on your brakes and helps control speed. Remember to pay close attention to road signs. It reduces your need to brake abruptly.
Your car’s braking system is probably the most overworked. Whether you are slowing down, stopping, or manoeuvring a quick hard stop, your brakes are at work. Over time your braking system experiences normal wear, which can lower the performance of your car and compromise your safety. It’s critical that you schedule regular brake system maintenance to ensure that your brakes are always in excellent shape.
AAMCO Colorado For Brake Repair and Complementary Auto Services
Our professionals at AAMCO Colorado are committed to ensuring that your brakes are always in optimum condition. We are always happy to serve you in case you need preventive car maintenance, brake repair, and other brake system services to provide safe driving conditions for you and your family.