Expensive Brake Repair Can Be Avoided with Regular Inspections

Jul 21
08:14

2011

Andrew Stratton

Andrew Stratton

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If you are worried about the high costs of brake repair, try to inspect the system regularly. Learn the basic facts about what to inspect and why, even if you plan to hire someone for the job.

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If you want to save money on brake repair,Expensive Brake Repair Can Be Avoided with Regular Inspections Articles you are advised to occasionally do an inspection of this part of your car, as this will prevent small issues from becoming big, expensive problems. Even if you do not know much about cars, you can likely still check yours to make sure the brakes are okay. Learn the basics of what should be inspected so you at least know where to start, or what to expect when a professional does the job. 

One of the most basic aspects of the braking system is the pads, which help the discs stop the car. They should be at least 1/8 inch thick in order to properly stop the vehicle. Otherwise, they are not very effective, and may lead to squeaking and grinding noises. One tip is that if you have to step on the pedal pretty hard to stop the vehicle, the pads probably need to be replaced. This is one of the most common types of brake repair, so do not be surprised if you have to pay for this service every few years. 

The rotors are key to stopping the vehicle when you press the brakes, which is why they need to be kept in good shape. If you let the pads run too thin, you may end up damaging the rotors, which is another reason to check the pads often. You should inspect the rotors for signs of wear and tear, such as a damaged surface, as these may need to be replaced for you to stop properly. At the same time, the brake lines should also be checked out, as they do not work well if they are cracked. 

The calipers should also be inspected occasionally, whether you are doing the job or having an expert do it. They should stay lubricated so that they work properly. In addition, make sure the proper amount of fluids are getting to the system. A good amount of brake fluid can help send hydraulic pressure from the pedal to the braking system, which means the whole process goes smoothly. You can check the fluid on your own, and you can easily add more if the level is low. 

If you know a bit about cars, you can probably check some of these factors yourself. However, there are some things that are easier for shops to do. For example, flushing the braking system every few years is a good idea, and this is best done by a shop since few people have the necessary equipment. Also, checking this system thoroughly requires you to take off the wheels, which is easiest for shops that are already making repairs. For this reason, you might want to simply ask for an inspection from the professionals you hire for other car repairs, as it should not take much more effort from them. Whether you check the system yourself or hire someone, doing so at least once per year is recommended so you can avoid major brake repair stemming from small problems that never got fixed.

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