Working brakes save lives but brake repairs are what many people tend to consider when it comes to thinking about their brakes and being safe on the roads. Focusing on brake maintenance is far more vital to passenger safety.
Maintaining your brakes 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 means that you can relax knowing that your brakes will be in good working order when you need them the most; in an emergency situation!
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 Highton Automotive Services without delay.
Brake fluid provides the pressure needed by the brake pads to stop your car. It also helps prolong the lifespan of your various brake components by helping to prevent corrosion. Most people know that it is imperative to keep the brake fluid level topped up, 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 fluid regularly yourself is good common sense, but don't rely on it's appearance 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 and it's not always noticeable in a visual inspection. Moisture in the fluid increases the chance the fluid will boil, which could result in a loss of braking pressure. A visual inspection is not sufficient to identify excess moisture in your brake fluid.
A brake fluid flush can be done as part of a scheduled service - but sometimes we may suggest you need one outside of a regular schedule if we feel it's necessary. We are always happy to discuss the reasons why with you.
Your brake pads are a vital part of your braking system and they are a part that you should monitor on a regular basis. Brake pads compress against your brake rotors (using the pressure of the brake fluid) to create friction and this friction makes your car stop. Unfortunately the amount of heat generated when stopping a significant mass (the vehicle) also wears down the brake pads over time. Regular inspection and/or replacement of your brake pads is an integral part of good brake maintenance practices.
Brake Pads can last for anywhere between 15,000 to 70,000 km's. This changes according to a number of reasons such as; driving conditions and style, regular heavy loads. If your brake pads are wearing out ahead of time your mechanic might advise using a heat resistant or heavier duty brake pad more suited to your vehicle.
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.
It is important to remember that noisy brakes are not only caused by normal wear and any unusual noises anywhere in your car should always be investigated by a qualified professional mechanic.
At Highton Automotive Services we offer a free 65 Point Vehicle Inspection Report with every car service. As part of our Vehicle Inspection Report we inspect the brake pads for wear and let you know if they require replacing. We can also recommend the right pad for your local conditions and driving style.
At Highton Automotive Services 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 is immediate or future need for repairs to your vehicle allowing you to budget in advance.
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