Nobody wants their car to break down. To keep your vehicle running well, you need to provide it with regular service. Have the oil changed a few times per year, rotate the tires, and check and replace the brakes as needed. A good auto care service will take care of all these maintenance tasks for you. However, you may still want to know more about the processes they follow, when service is needed, and what other types of services may help your car last longer. We've build this website for people like you — responsible car owners who just want to learn more. Enjoy!
Routine brake service helps you avoid a premature brake replacement. It also ensures that your car is safe to drive.
1. Pad Replacement
Brake pads often wear out before other components in the brake system, which means they need to be replaced more often. During a routine brake service, the pads will be inspected to see if they require replacement. If they have worn too much or if they are wearing unevenly, then replacement will likely be necessary. Uneven wear may also indicate that the brakes need adjustment or that your car requires an alignment.
2. Rotor Inspection
The rotors don't need replacing very often, but they may need repairs. Damaged pads, for example, can etch the rotors and leave behind grooves that affect the new pads and that can inhibit proper braking. Fortunately, rotors can be machined smooth again if the damage is caught and repaired before it becomes too extensive. All of the rotors will be checked and remachined as necessary during a routine brake service.
3. Fluid Flush
It's a good idea to have the brake fluid flushed and the lines bled to remove any air during your brake service. Over time, small particulates can build up in the fluid, which will affect the braking ability of your car. Flushing removes the old fluid and these particulates and then replaces the old with new fluid that will perform better. After a fluid change, the brake lines are bled so that there are no air bubbles present that could interfere with braking ability.
4. Sensor Checks
Modern brakes have one or more sensors. There may be a sensor to indicate when pad wear necessitates a replacement, for example, as well as sensors that indicate the brakes are slipping or otherwise having difficulties. These sensors can come out of alignment, which means they won't work when you need them to. Your service tech will check the sensors and adjust or replace them as needed.
5. System Cleaning
Dust and dirt, as well as debris from brake wear, can collect within the system. If your brakes are squealing but there is no mechanical damage, then it's likely dirt stuck between the pads and the rotors. This dirt can lead to premature wear of the pads and etching on the rotors. During routine service, the brake system will be completely cleaned so that no debris remains.
Contact a mechanic to schedule a brake service and inspection today.
Share7 May 2021
