When it comes to maintaining your car properly, one of the most important systems is the braking system. And when you need brake repair, SpringMasters Auto in Stickney, IL can give you service that you can rely on.
How Often Do You Need Brake Service?
There really aren’t any big rules about how often you should have your brakes serviced. Your car’s owner’s manual has a recommendation that you should heed, though.
The biggest thing to remember is that if you pay attention to your brakes, you can solve a lot of situations before they become a much larger and more expensive brake repair.
So, what does it mean to pay attention to your brakes?
Listen for odd sounds, like squealing or screeching, when you apply the brake pedal. Also, if the pedal feels soft or squishy when you apply the brakes, that can be an issue. If your car pulls to one side or the other when you apply the brakes, that indicates trouble.
Take action as soon as you notice anything unusual. SpringMasters Auto can examine your brakes for you and let you know what’s happening.
When Should You Replace Brake Pads and Rotors?
Your brake rotor is the disc attached to your wheel. The brake calipers and the brake pads fit over the edge of the rotor and cause the wheel to stop spinning when the brake pedal is pushed. But worn brake rotors can’t properly connect with the brake pads, making stopping a problem.
One of the big signs that your brake rotors aren’t in good condition is that you’ll start to feel a vibration when you apply the brake and try to stop. This vibration is the incomplete connection with the brake pads letting you know it’s time for brake service.
Your brake pads have something called wear tabs. These case a metallic screeching sound when you apply the brakes, letting you know they’re wearing down.
Not sure how your brake pads and rotors are doing? Stop by SpringMasters Auto in Chicago, IL and we can check it out for you.
Three Tips for Helping Your Brakes Last Longer
It makes sense to see what you can do to help your brakes to live a longer life. Here are some ideas.
- Get your brakes repaired at a reputable mechanic. Your parts and repair will last longer.
- Leave plenty of space between you and other cars. This gives you more room to stop safely, without slamming on the brakes.
- Watch your speed. Sadly, having a lead foot means bad things for your brakes.
Want to start out with the best mechanic in the Stickney, IL area? Give us a call at SpringMasters Auto and we can set up an appointment. We are conveniently located in Chicago IL and Stickney in Cook County IL, and servicing the surrounding areas in Lyons, Berwyn, and Cicero.