What will my brake service include?
Since brake pads are only one possible problem with a brake system, there are other items to be included in a brake service. Depending on the results of the braking system evaluation, your vehicle brake service may include:
Brakes keep you and your family safe. Brake parts and brake services are not what you want to skimp on. But we understand the importance of reducing expenses and we aim to offer cost-effective solutions that provide leading services as well. Come see us for a brake job today.
Visit our locations page to find current brake service deals at a center near you.
Brakes are designed to counteract your vehicle’s movement. When you press down on your brake, a lever acts on the master cylinder to release hydraulic fluid. This fluid triggers a chain reaction in the hydraulic system moving from cylinder to cylinder to multiple the small force applied by your foot to bring your car to a stop.
Brake pads work with the brake caliper to stop the spinning motion of your wheels. The caliper squeezes the pads together, creating friction between the pads and the brake rotors. The pads and rotors then work together to stop your car’s wheels. When you apply pressure to your brakes and hear a squeak, it’s most likely your brake pads warning you they may need to be replaced.
Brake rotors, also called brake discs, are a key part of your car’s braking system, As the brake pads clamp down on them, the applied pressure will stop the spinning of your wheels.
Brake pads typically last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. Brake rotors can last up to 3 times longer than the pads, but it depends greatly on driving habits and environment.
When you apply your brakes, they should feel firm throughout the process, and the harder you push, the firmer your brakes should feel. If your brakes feel spongy when pressure is applied, then you should have them evaluated by a professional mechanic. Spongy brakes could be a sign of a problem in the hydraulic system, such as failing calipers or a weak flex line.
The brake pedal feels spongy when brake fluid is not flowing properly. This means that air got into the lines, preventing the fluid’s proper flow. To get rid of the air, you’ll need to go through a process called “bleeding the brakes”.
A brake system flush is when existing brake fluid is removed and new fluid is added to the hydraulic system. This ensures proper performance and increased life span of your brakes.
Yes. Brake fluid affects the operation of your braking system, as the presence of water in the brake lines reduces the fluid’s boiling point, therefore the vehicle’s stopping ability is diminished in hard stops.
This is dependent on the make and model of your vehicle; refer to your manufacturer’s scheduled maintenance guide for best practices for your vehicle. A general rule of thumb is replacing brake fluid whenever your brake pads are replaced.
There are several reasons for hearing noises when braking. Squealing noises can be caused by rusted rotors, while squeaking noises usually indicate cheap brake pads or the indicator hitting the rotor. Grinding noise is caused by the contact of the rotor disc with part of the caliper.
Yes. This is a wake-up call to stop driving the car and have it checked out. The grinding noise usually indicates the lack of brake pad material, which means the pads are so worn out that the rotors and brake pads are now metal on metal.
The usual cause of the car pulling to the left or right when braking is contamination of the braking system. It can also happen if a caliper malfunctions.
The most common answer is that brake rotors are out of bound, in which case you’d also be able to feel it through the brake pedal. The vibration can also occur when a brake caliper sticks on, in which case the steering wheel will vibrate as well.
The Importance of Having Good Brakes
You never know when you’re going to have to make a quick stop while driving your car. It is critical that you be able to trust your anti-lock brakes when faced with an emergency situation. If you have passengers in your vehicle, children especially, the need for safety is even greater. Regular inspections are the best way to make sure that your brakes are in peak condition. At Meineke #303 in Brooklyn, NY, we offer excellent ABS brake service, including timely and cost-effective inspections.
How do you know when you need new rotors?
The average cost to replace a brake disc is between $ 406 and $ 559. Labor costs are estimated to be between $ 158 and $ 200, while parts are between $ 248 and $ 359. Estimates do not include taxes and fees.
