Bad Brake Repair Advice And Myths

Nov 23
06:19

2011

Anna Woodward

Anna Woodward

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Not all auto advice should be trusted, and there are many myths and exaggerations about brake repair. Before you jump to conclusions about squealing noises or start using the emergency lever, there are some things you should know.

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Don't let bad brake repair advice cost you money,Bad Brake Repair Advice And Myths Articles time, and safety. There are many myths that range from dangerous to simply overprotective. The next time you experience difficulty stopping, hear unusual noises, or have another related issue, here are some tips that can help.

The emergency or parking lever is not a substitute for brake repair. Rather than spending the time and money required for new pads or rotors, people will simply force their car to stop with this lever. Unless you are experiencing complete failure of your brakes, using the lever will ultimately damage your car further, and is an extreme safety hazard. It works differently than the pedal in that it only stops the back wheels. You can easily lose control of the car this way, most commonly by skidding. Some people will inadvertently begin driving with the lever still deployed, which is often accompanied by a burning smell. If you catch and remedy the situation quickly enough (and don't do it too often) it shouldn't pose any problems. Teens and younger drivers will also sometimes use the parking lever to pull dangerous driving stunts such as burnouts or "donuts." These maneuvers can severely damage the rotors and pads.

Do you rush your car into the shop as soon as you hear a telltale squealing? Is it happening too often? The number one golden rule of brake repair has commonly been - if it squeals bring it in. Some pads, however, need time to warm up. Cold air or lack of lubrication can be the cause of the screech initially. When applying the brakes, take note of how loud the noise is from when you start your drive and when you end. If it just needed warming up, after a short drive the noise should disappear. Rust can also develop if the car is left unused for long periods of time. While you should closely monitor any unusual noises, on average it is estimated that most pads should last about 30,000 miles. Don't treat pad replacement as you would an oil change.

All pads and rotors are not the same. When you go in for brake repair, it is important to ask which type they will be using and why. Some chains will simply use generic products that come with a lifetime warranty. These are more prone to failure and wear. The pads themselves are fairly inexpensive and warranties won't cover where the true price comes in - the labor. While you don't have to buy top-of-the-line or specialty products either, it is worth your while not to choose the most generic, cheapest option.

If the fluid in your brakes is low, rather than topping it off and going on your way, you should consider having the pads checked. Low fluid means the pads are using more, meaning they are quickly wearing down. There can also be a leak, which of course would require mending rather than a simple top off as well. In either case, this is one instance where you shouldn't skimp on service.