Brakes Are a Key Part in Vehicle Safety
When it comes to vehicle safety, many drivers must know the importance of regular brake maintenance. The brakes allow the vehicle to decelerate and make a stop. Without functional brakes, drivers and passengers are at risk of injury due to accidents.
There are a handful of signs and symptoms of faulty brakes in your vehicle. If you notice any oddities while braking or driving, be sure to schedule an appointment with your mechanic. It’s better to be safe than sorry, especially when dealing with your safety.
This month we’re going to cover brake maintenance and how to keep your vehicle in working order. Check our blog soon for more information on rotors, too.
Signs That Your Brakes Need Attention
Many drivers can tell when there is a problem with their brakes, even if they aren’t the most knowledgeable about cars. Brake problems are nothing to ignore, as they are an essential part of driver safety. If you notice any of these issues with your brakes, call your mechanic right away:
- Vibrating when using brakes
- Squealing
- Brakes not working or “flooring” brake pedal
- Burning smell
- Brake light is on the dashboard
Have you noticed any of these issues with your vehicle? Make an appointment at your local garage right away. Faulty brakes can lead to accidents and injury.
Do You Know the Many Parts of the Brakes?
There are many parts of the brakes that work together in decelerating your vehicle. But do you know what they are? All parts of the brakes are important to your safety. Sensible Driver breaks down some of the important parts of the brakes, including:
Brake pads. Brake pads squeeze the rotor when the driver pushes the pedal. These can last upwards of 40,000 miles.
Rotors. Rotors are discs that rotate when the wheels are moving. Because of friction, rotors need replacing after so many years.
Brake fluid. Brake fluid moves through the brake line, causing the vehicle to stop.
There are various types of brake systems and styles that vehicles have. Some of these include hydraulic, electromagnetic, and mechanical. In most cases, the mechanical brake system is found with emergency brakes on some standard models.
Check Brake Fluid Every So Often
As mentioned above, the brake fluid is an essential part of the brake system. Without it, your brakes cannot function properly. Checking the brake fluid every so often will ensure that your brakes are in working order.
One way to service brake fluid is to flush it. Moisture builds up in the fluid over time, which can corrode the brakes. Flushing the brake fluid can help to remove this moisture and keep the brake system safe from damage. Check your owner’s manual to see the recommended time to flush the brake fluid. A standard guideline to follow is to flush the brake fluid every 25,000 miles or so.
Vehicle owners can check their brake fluid at home to see the levels or color. If the color is a murky white, it’s time to change it. Bass Transmissions can properly change brake fluid for your vehicle in the Roanoke, VA, area.
Pay Close Attention to Rotors and Brake Pads While Driving
Brake pads and rotors work together to help the vehicle decelerate. Because of their constant use, brake pads and rotors may need more maintenance than other parts of the braking system. Cars.com states that if you’re hearing grinding or squealing with the brakes, there’s a good chance it’s the pads or rotors.
It’s best to not drive your vehicle for too long with faulty rotors or brake pads. Be sure to schedule a brake maintenance appointment with your trusted mechanic to avoid further damage.
How to Keep Your Brakes in Working Order for Longer
There are a few ways to prevent damage to your brakes as you drive. All vehicles are different, and wear and tear occurs without having to try. However, following these steps can help to keep your brakes in working order:
- Checking over brakes every 12,000 miles, according to MotorWeek
- Slowly braking, not slamming on the brakes
- Not carrying or hauling items too heavy for the vehicle
- Bleeding the brake line every few years
- Flushing brake fluid
Keeping up with the many aspects of vehicle maintenance can feel like a chore. The mechanics at Bass Transmissions in Roanoke, VA, are here for routine auto repair and maintenance. Call us today for brake service.
Bass Transmissions Offers Brake Maintenance and Repairs in Roanoke
Bass Transmissions & Automotive Repair in Roanoke, VA, is the area’s choice for brake maintenance. We can handle the following problems with brakes in both foreign and domestic vehicles:
Actuators
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
Blacking Plate
Brake Assemblies
Brake Fluids
Caliper & Support
Brake Hydraulics
Brake Lines, Pads, and Shoes
Disk Brakes
Brake Tubes & Hoses
Parking/Emergency Brake
Sensors
Wheel Cylinder
And More!
Is it time for brake maintenance or repair for your vehicle? Reach out today to schedule an appointment with our trusted mechanics. We will have your vehicle back in working order in no time.
Are you looking for a new, experienced mechanic? Call Bass Transmissions & Automotive Repair in Roanoke, VA, at (540) 345-8871 or follow us on Facebook for updates. We proudly serve vehicle owners throughout the Roanoke Valley. Reach out today to schedule brake maintenance.
