In the automotive world, a lot of attention is paid to things like horsepower and tech features. Often, one of the single most important automotive components in existence is sadly overlooked. We’re talking about your brakes. What good is a fast car if it doesn’t stop fast, too? And what are cool tech features worth if you’re driving your family around in an unsafe ride? Keeping your brakes ship-shape not only prevents vehicle damage but could keep you out of a dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.
Brake Care 101
You know that keeping your car clean is important, and you probably wouldn’t forget to put gas in the tank. Make sure you keep that same attitude about your vehicle’s braking system and you’ll be ahead of the game. Some things you can do to give your brakes a longer life and a better shot at working properly include:
- Check your brake fluid regularly. The biggest thing to check for is whether any moisture (water) has gotten into the brake fluid, since this can cause all kinds of nasty corrosion. If you’re not sure how to tell, ask a trusted mechanic to take a look. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to changing brake fluid, since guidelines for this can vary wildly between automakers. This, again, is where an experienced auto technician can be very helpful.
- Watch your driving habits. If you tend to speed up and then slow down very quickly by slamming on the brakes, you are probably decreasing the longevity of your braking system. This “hurry up and wait” mentality is common among city drivers, but it pays to look ahead in order to avoid having to stop abruptly. Coast to that red light instead of accelerating until just before it’s time to stop. Next time you drive, try paying attention to ways you could make more efficient use of your brakes.
When Brakes are Bad
To determine whether your brakes need replacing, take a peek between the spokes on your wheels. If there’s less than 1/4 inch of pad left, head to the repair shop. Driving on worn-down brake pads is dangerous — and will cause much more expensive damage if left unchecked. If you see that your rotors are anything other than smooth and shiny, you’ve got a bigger problem. Another indication that something is amiss with your brakes is screeching. Brakes do sometimes make noises that are perfectly normal, especially if they get wet or dusty. If you’re noticing an ongoing noise, though, let a professional take a look. Other indicators of imminent brake failure include a loss of responsiveness, pulling to one side or another, and grinding or vibrating.
If you think you may need a brake repair or replacement, come see the certified technicians in our service department. Our highly skilled experts are honest and knowledgable, using only the best parts and most cutting-edge techniques to get you back on the road quickly. Come let us give your brakes some TLC at Crown Acura in Clearwater, also serving our friends in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Pinellas Park and Largo. Contact us today!
Dan Morris
Crown Acura
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