Brake repairs is what many people tend to think about when it comes to being safe on the roads, but concentrating on regular brake maintenance is much more vital to your overall safety.
Maintaining your brakes properly means not waiting until they need repairs but having them checked on a regular basis to help avoid any unseen or unexpected problems which might impact your ability to brake safely and efficiently should the need arise. Regular brake maintenance allows you to feel confident that your brakes will be in good working order when you need them most - in an emergency.
When it comes to Brake Maintenance, you should never take a risk. If you're not sure if your brake maintenance is 100% - call a professional like Auto Stop without delay.
Most people are fully aware that it is important to keep the brake fluid level topped up to maximise brake performance, but did you know that you should also have the entire system flushed regularly to replace old brake fluid and prevent excessive moisture in the fluid?
Checking your brake fluids colour regularly yourself is good common sense, but don't rely on it to indicate the actual condition of the fluid. Simply because it looks clean doesn't mean it's actually in good condition. Moisture can accumulate in the brake fluid, increasing the risk that the fluid will not do the job required of it and it's not always noticeable in a visual inspection.
There are various types of brake fluids available, each with their own benefits. The most common types include DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1, which are glycol-based fluids. DOT 3 and DOT 4 are widely used due to their affordability and efficiency in everyday vehicles, offering good performance under normal driving conditions. DOT 5.1 is designed for high-performance and high-temperature environments, making it ideal for sports or performance vehicles. Additionally, there's DOT 5, a silicone-based fluid that does not absorb moisture, providing longer-lasting performance and protecting against corrosion. However, it is not compatible with most braking systems and is typically used in classic or military vehicles. Selecting the appropriate brake fluid for your vehicle ensures optimal braking performance and longevity.
Brakes that squeal can be a warning that your brake pads are wearing out. Many good quality brake pads have a small metal piece embedded in them designed to purposely scratch on the disc when your brake pads are degraded, causing that high pitch noise. However, it's not advised to wait until you hear noises to get your pads assessed, we recommend having your brakes inspected at every service.
Brake pads are made from three main types of materials: organic, semi-metallic, and ceramic. Organic brake pads, composed of materials like rubber, carbon compounds, and fibreglass, are often used in smaller vehicles or city cars due to their quiet operation and softer braking feel. Semi-metallic brake pads contain a mixture of metals, such as steel and copper, making them durable and effective for a wide range of vehicles, including performance cars. They are particularly useful for drivers who engage in more aggressive or high-speed driving. Ceramic brake pads, known for their longevity and minimal noise, are made from ceramic fibres and are typically used in high-performance and luxury vehicles. Each type of brake pad is chosen based on the vehicle's requirements, driving conditions, and the driver's preference for braking performance.
Brake Pads can last for anywhere between 15,000 to 70,000 km's but this changes according to a number of reasons such as driving conditions, your driving style and carrying or towing regular heavy loads. If your brake pads are wearing out ahead of time your Auto Stop mechanic might advise using heavier duty or heat resistant brake pads more suited to your vehicle or driving style.
It is important to remember that unusual brake sounds are not just caused by normal wear and any unusual noises anywhere in your car should always be investigated by a qualified professional mechanic.
At Auto Stop we offer a Vehicle Inspection Report, upon request, with every full car service which includes a written review of your brake system and more. This Vehicle Inspection Report lets you know if there are any immediate need for repairs to your vehicle allowing you to budget for them in advance.
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