Brake Maintenance Tips To Stay Safe And On The Road
Posted on: 18 January 2016
Your brakes are a vital part of your car's safe operating systems, which means it is in your best interest to keep them operating well. Some bad habits can unfortunately make the brakes wear out more quickly, necessitating a premature replacement of the pads or other components in the system. The following tips can help you avoid this, or at least recognize a problem, so you can get the most from your brakes.
Tip #1: Avoid Hard Braking
Slamming on the brakes is probably one of the greatest causes of wear and tear. Keep an eye on the traffic and road conditions ahead of you so you can remove your foot from the gas and begin coasting to a stop much more slowly. Not only is a gradual stop nicer for your brakes, it is also safer overall. Slamming on your brakes can catch the drivers of the cars behind you off guard, resulting in an accident.
Tip #2: Monitor the Fluid
Brake fluid should be relatively translucent, but occasionally water gets into the brake lines. When this happens, the fluid begins to darken. Check the fluid periodically, perhaps about once a month, to make sure the level is correct and the fluid is clean. Check your owner's manual for help in finding the fluid access point. If the fluid is dirty, take it to a mechanic to have it flushed and replaced. Low fluids levels may indicate a leak in your brake lines, which will require an inspection and repair.
Tip #3: Lighten Your Load
Extra weight can also put stress on your brakes. Make sure you don't leave unnecessary items in your trunk and keep your car cleaned out. Not only does it require more braking power to stop a heavier vehicle, which wears out the pads, but the excess weight can also have a negative impact on your gas mileage.
Tip #4: Know When There is a Problem
Even with careful driving and regular maintenance, your brake pads will eventually require replacement. The following are the signs that it is time to take your car in for auto repair services:
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Squealing or grinding noises when braking.
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Car seems slower to respond or pulls to one side as you brake.
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A "mushy" brake pedal – it feels as though you have to really push down to get a response.
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The brake warning lights come on.
Contact a local auto repair shop to have your car looked at as soon as possible if you suspect a brake issue.
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