Brake Parts 101
Before breaking down the brake repair process, you need to be familiar with the major components of your vehicle’s braking system. Those include the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid.
- Brake pads undergo a lot of heat and friction as they come in contact with the rotors to stop the car.
- Rotors are connected to the tires. To stop the car, the rotor’s spinning must be stopped.
- Calipers use brake fluid to create pressure that applies the brake pads to the rotors to stop them.
- Brake fluid is necessary for brakes to function. Pressure in brake fluid lines create the energy used to stop the vehicle.
The Replacement Process
What exactly is the mechanic up to during brake replacement? What does the entire process involve for your vehicle? Your certified technicians start with a visual inspection of the braking system’s components, checking for evidence of damage on brake pads and rotors. Worn out brake pads are dangerous and can cause further damage to rotors, leading to brake failure. The lines, hoses, calipers and other hydraulic components are also inspected for fluid contaminants that degrade performance. With so much riding on them, brakes need a professional hand when it’s time for repairs and replacements.
When to Change Your Brakes
When and how frequently your brakes need service and repair depends on a few key factors.
- Your specific vehicle model may have an ideal schedule for brake repair determined by the manufacturer.
- Individual driving habits greatly influence how long brakes last. If you are slow to brake and hard on the pedal, you might be in for more frequent repairs.
- Local weather and climate takes a toll on brakes as well. If you live in a region where rain and snowfall are expected, you can also expect the road conditions to be hard on your brakes. Slippery surfaces and road debris can damage and contaminate brake parts.
Schedule Brake Service Today
If you are unsure about the health of your car’s brakes or when they will need replacement, don’t worry! A professional at Evan’s Auto Care can assess them during regular maintenance to keep you informed on when and what to expect from a brake replacement. You can always stop by or schedule an appointment to have a certified technician take a closer look at your car’s brakes.