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When it comes to your car’s safety, there’s nothing more important than your brakes. They are the critical component that brings your vehicle to a stop, and if they are not working properly, you could be putting yourself and others at risk. Brake repair is needed if this happens.

5 Signs That You May Need Brake Repair

Brake Repair

There are a number of signs that may indicate that you need brake repair. Here are a few of the most common:

1. Brake Repair: Squeaking or Squealing Noises

If you hear high-pitched noises coming from your wheels when you apply the brakes, your brake pads may be worn down and need to be replaced.

2. Brake Repair: Grinding Noises

If you hear a grinding noise when you apply the brakes, it’s a sign your brake pads are completely worn down and the metal backing plates are rubbing against the rotors. This can cause serious damage to your brakes, so get them repaired as soon as possible.

3. Pulling to One Side

If your car pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, your brakes may be out of balance. This can be caused by a number of factors, including a sticking caliper, a warped rotor, or a low tire.

4. Vibrating Brake Pedal

If your brake pedal vibrates when you apply the brakes, your rotors may be warped. This can cause your brakes to lose their effectiveness and can also make your car pull to one side.

5. Longer Stopping Distances

If it takes longer for your car to stop than it used to, it indicates that your brakes are not working as efficiently as they should. This could be due to worn brake pads, warped rotors, or a problem with your brake fluid.

Brake Repair: What Causes Brake Problems?

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While there are numerous factors that can contribute to brake issues, here are some of the most common culprits:

Normal Wear and Tear

Perhaps the most inevitable cause of brake problems is simply the natural wear and tear that occurs with regular use. Over time, the brake pads, which are responsible for creating friction to slow the vehicle, will gradually wear down. When they become too thin, they lose their effectiveness, and eventually, the metal backing plate will come into contact with the rotor, causing a grinding noise and potential damage.

Overheating

Excessive heat can be a major contributor to brake problems. This can occur due to prolonged heavy braking, such as during mountain driving or emergency stops, or when the brake system is not adequately ventilated. Overheating can cause the rotors to warp, leading to uneven braking and vibrations, or it can damage the brake pads and calipers.

Contamination

Brake fluid, a hydraulic fluid that transmits pressure to the brakes, can become contaminated in several ways. Moisture can enter the system through leaks or a faulty master cylinder, reducing the fluid’s boiling point and causing it to vaporize under pressure. This can lead to a loss of braking power and a spongy brake pedal. Additionally, contaminants such as dirt, metal shavings, or air can enter the system through leaks or improper bleeding, causing the system to malfunction.

Corrosion

Corrosion is another common cause of brake problems. Over time, moisture, salt, and other corrosive elements can attack the metal components of the brake system, such as the calipers, rotors, and brake lines. Corrosion can lead to leaks, seized calipers, and reduced braking efficiency.

Brake Repair: What Happens if You Don’t Get Your Brakes Repaired?

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Ignoring the signs that your brakes need repair can have serious consequences, both for your safety and your vehicle. Here are some of the potential risks:

Loss of Control

If your brakes fail, you may not be able to stop your car in time to avoid an accident. This is especially dangerous in situations where you need to brake quickly, such as to avoid a collision or a pedestrian.

Increased Stopping Distances

Even if your brakes don’t completely fail, worn or damaged brakes can increase your stopping distances. This means that it will take longer for your car to come to a stop, making it more difficult to react to unexpected hazards.

Damage to Your Brakes

Driving on worn or damaged brakes can cause further damage to your brake system. This can include warped rotors, seized calipers, and damaged brake lines. These repairs can be expensive and may require extensive work.

How Can I Prevent Brake Problems?

To gurantee the longevity and efficiency of your brakes, consider these preventative measures:

Regular Inspections

  • Monthly Self-Checks: Conduct a visual inspection of your brake pads and rotors. Look for signs of wear, such as thinning pads or grooves in the rotors.
  • Professional Inspections: Schedule a comprehensive brake inspection every six months by a qualified mechanic. They can identify potential issues and address them before they become more serious.

Timely Replacements

  • Brake Pads: Replace brake pads when they reach their manufacturer’s recommended thickness. Driving on worn pads can damage the rotors and compromise braking performance.
  • Rotors: If your rotors become warped or excessively grooved, they should be replaced or resurfaced. Warped rotors can cause vibrations and uneven braking.

Gentle Braking Habits

  • Avoid Harsh Stops: Excessive braking can cause overheating and premature wear. Brake smoothly and progressively to minimize stress on your brakes.
  • Anticipate Traffic: Be aware of your surroundings and adjust your speed accordingly to avoid sudden braking.

Maintain Brake Fluid

  • Fluid Level: See to it that the brake fluid level is between the “Full” and “Add” marks in the reservoir. Low fluid levels can compromise braking performance.
  • Fluid Quality: Have your brake fluid flushed and replaced according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture, which can reduce its effectiveness.

Professional Maintenance

  • Regular Service: Schedule routine brake service to address any issues before they become more severe. This may include bleeding the brakes, inspecting the brake lines, and checking for leaks.
  • Qualified Mechanic: Ensure that your brakes are serviced by a qualified mechanic who has the necessary expertise and equipment to diagnose and repair brake problems.

What Happens During a Brake Repair?

When you take your car in for a brake repair, the mechanic will conduct a thorough inspection of your braking system. This typically involves examining the brake pads, rotors, and calipers for signs of wear, damage, or corrosion. The brake fluid level will also be checked, as low fluid levels can compromise braking performance.

If the mechanic finds any issues, they will take the necessary steps to repair or replace the damaged components. This may involve replacing worn brake pads or rotors, repairing or replacing calipers, or bleeding the brakes to remove air from the system.

Once the repairs are complete, the mechanic will test the brakes to ensure that they are functioning properly and safely.

Treasure Valley Auto Care — Your Trusted Brake Repair Service Provider

If you’re looking for a reliable auto repair shop in Garden City, look no further than Treasure Valley Auto Care. We’re a family-owned and operated business that has been serving the community for over 20 years. We specialize in all types of auto repair and maintenance, including brake repair.

We’re committed to providing our customers with the highest quality of service at a fair price. We also offer a variety of financing options to help you get the repairs you need.

To schedule a brake inspection or repair, call us at 208-385-0339 or email us at quality@treasurevalleyautocare.com.