Brake Repair Basics

When it comes to car maintenance, one of the things you’ll do often is brake repair. As time goes on you will actually have to replace the basic parts of your cars braking system. To be able to understand how your car works and why repairs cost as much that it does, you really should know the basic layout of the parts that you will be replacing. It will also help give you a better understanding when you speak to your mechanic about the issues at hand.

Probably the most replaced part during a brake repair is the pads. Just about every few years they will wear thin and will need to be is exchanged for new ones. As they start to wear down you most likely hear a squeaking or grinding noise. This means that the cushion that has been stopping the car is getting down to the metal holdings that attached it to your car to begin with. This should not go on for too long as you may damage the rotors.

Rotors are probably the next part most commonly replaced part during a brake repair. These parts will wear out and have to be replaced. They are more expensive to fix than simply replacing the pads. If you can get them resurfaced it will cut the cost slightly. You can help maintain the life of your rotors by replacing pads every few years as they begin to wear down. Should you hear a squeaking or grinding noise, you should replace them immediately to keep from damaging the rotors.

The main part of this system to stop your car is called the master cylinder. The brakes and tubing are connected to the cylinder. While this part is cheap to replace, it is not often needed. Only when the cylinder begins to leak does it become necessary to replace this piece. An indicator that you may need to replace the cylinder is that the pedal sinks to the floor when you're trying to stop. There is also a dashboard light that will warn you of the problem should you not realize that this is an issue.

Another part of your system is called the capillaries. These are the pieces that squeeze the pads to make your car stop. Occasionally these capillaries can leak fluid or lockup, which can make it difficult for you to stop the car. At some point in time during the life of your car this repair will probably become necessary. Unfortunately, it is probably the most expensive brake repair type that you will have to do.

If you are not knowledgeable of cars, maintaining your vehicle may mean that you have to go to an expert. These brake repair experts can help get the pieces that you need to get you back on the road. It is best to have a mechanic picked out long before you need work done on your vehicle. This way you will be accustomed to their work ethic and their fees so that you're sure you're able to maintain your budget.