A general estimation of when you should check your brake system is every ten thousand to twenty thousand miles, but varying makes and models may have their own mileage guidelines. Keeping a step ahead of repairs by performing maintenance and preventative checks can save money, time, and sometimes even life. Checking fluid, checking, pads for wear and checking wheel bearings are three things that you can do to predict a repair schedule.
Fluid is stored in the master cylinder which is a small rectangular metal piece with metal tubes dispensing from it. It is located under the hood on the driver’s side of the vehicle. A plastic reservoir with a rubber cap sits on top of it; in older cars, the reservoir may be made of metal as well. In either case, there will be an obvious fill line indicated, and when the fluid meets the line, the level is sufficient. If the fluid does not meet the line, you are low on fluid. It is important to replenish fluids to the fill line being particularly careful not to get any dirt, lent, oil, etc inside the container. Close it immediately as not to allow moisture or the elements from making their way inside.
Checking pads, sometimes called shoes, for repair needs is rather simple, though the dust that surrounds these components should not be inhaled as it may be asbestos. Wear a proper mask when completing this task. Using your owner’s manual for further directions, remove a wheel and peer into the back of the caliper checking for the thickness of the lining. Manufactures as well as some state inspection codes, at least those states that still mandate inspections, will dictate a minimum thickness, but you are generally looking for the lining to be at least one thirty-second of an inch thick. If this is not your finding, you need to take your vehicle to the shop for a pad replacement.
For the most part, wheel bearings will not need any special attention until other services are needed, but it is a good idea to have the bearings checked anytime your car is being services, as those can only be properly checked when a car is raised off the ground. Because this will usually occur when your car is already in the shop, it will most often be done by an experienced mechanic. If you find yourself in the position, however, you are mainly listening for noises, resistance, and feeling for wiggling as the wheels are spun, pushed, pulled, and shook.
Keeping an eye on these three components of your vehicle’s brake system will help you stay ahead of the game concerning minor repairs and maintenance. It can also save you money on major brake repairs by prolonging the life of your brakes.
