Brake maintenance is very vital in car maintenance, it contributes to the longevity and performance of your vehicle but can also be a major factor in accidents, as well as road deaths due to collision. It is important you inspect and make necessary repairs to every component to ensure all parts are in working order. Below we have highlighted some brake maintenance tips that will help you stay safe on the roads.
- Your brake pads should be checked at least once per year or when your car makes 12,000 miles. If they are worn, its best you replace them.
- Your brake fluid is also essential to the proper functioning of your brakes, it helps to transfer heat to all parts of the brake system and absorb water. The color of the fluid changes over time, once you notice the color is dark, it’s time to get it flushed.
- The brake pads and rotors are also key parts of the brake system; they are the point of contact between your braking system and your tires. The friction which is generated between the tires makes them deteriorate easily than other components and require frequent maintenance.
It is important to inspect the quality and depth of the pads to make sure there is sufficient resistance. You should change it when you notice you need to depress your brake pedal further or perceive a strange burning smell. - You should always listen and check for warning signs. These may include unusual noises, strange brake response, and abnormal feeling when you press on the brakes, and they may indicate a dangerous problem that you should have checked out right away.
- During cold winter months, when there is an increased risk of snow and ice on the roads, it is more important than ever to ensure your brakes are properly maintained.
- Bleeding the system removes the air from the brake line by depressing the brake pedal while adjusting the bleeder valve, and this should be done every 2– 3 years.