Avoiding Frequent Brake Repair

Your brake system is the most important safety feature with which your car is equipped and there are a few tricks that can prolong the life of this vital part of your vehicle. Becoming familiar with major components of the system, using your parking brake, and learning to conserve your usage are three ways to promote and ensure safety as it is concerned with this safety device.

You do not need to know exactly how it works to know if your car is in dire need of brake repair. Train yourself to notice differences in how the pedal functions. Needed changes in pressure to come to a stop, a locking or sinking pedal, or a noise that is induced by applying pressure to the pedal are all signs that brake repair work may need to be performed. An experienced auto mechanic will know the causes of these symptoms, so be sure to relay the information in as much detail as possible when taking your car in to the shop.

Most people revert to using a parking brake only if the vehicle is a standard transmission. The purpose of this emergency tool is to provide, as it implies, an emergency stop in the event of regular system failure. Even with an automatic transmission, you should get into the habit of applying the emergency pedal or pulling the lever, whatever the case may be. This first reason for this is to keep the mechanism in working order, leading to less frequent brake repair jobs. A seldom used emergency brake may not function properly when needed because of corroded cables, and in this case frequent use is conducive to good working order. It is also advised to use this safety feature frequently so that in the event of a real emergency of system failure, you will be able to apply the mechanism in a natural and familiar movement without the application of forethought. Those seconds could mean the difference between safely avoiding a collision and catastrophe.

Lastly, take a break! Learning to conserve usage of the pedal will prolong life and stretch a dollar. Do not ride the pedal, and try to anticipate stops so that you can first slow down by releasing pressure on the accelerator before finally reverting to the stop pedal only for the final stop. Of course, you want o keep safety in the forefront, but learning to conservatively and gently use the pedal will keep the system in better shape.

These three techniques are suggested for care of your wallet, and for care of yourself. Even with the utmost carefulness, the system should be check in accordance with manufacturer’s suggestions to ensure proper working condition and safety for all.