Brakes

When the time comes to make an emergency quick stop, you want your breaks to be in excellent working order. But to make strong stops without fail, you car's brake system requires regular maintenance. Read on to get a better handle on your braking performance.

Why do you need regular brake maintenance?

Little by little, using your brakes wears away at the pads and discs. Even in low-key, everyday driving, your brake system slowly wears down. In order to maintain a safely operating system, regular maintenance is necessary.

Brake Maintenance 101

Wondering what you can do to keep your brakes working like they're supposed to? Start with this to-do list:

• Top off your brake fluid. If brake fluid levels get low, you'll end up stressing the master brake cylinder, which could put further stress on other components - even your pads, drums, and rotors.
• Get regular brake inspections. With a modern vehicle, checking the rotors, pads, and calipers is a relatively simple process, and one that can keep you from having to make costly repairs later.
• Don't ignore the dashboard light. If the brake light appears on your dash, get a brake inspection ASAP.
• Keep tabs on your brake lines. Because they're located on the underbelly of your car - where a steady stream of pebbles, salt, and ice flies at them - it's a good idea to inspect the brake lines for wear and tear. Most cars are designed to keep brake lines secure, but a little vigilance doesn't hurt.
• Check your car's manual. It's a good rule of thumb to check your brakes every 10,000 miles or every third oil change. But your auto manual will give you detailed maintenance suggestions regarding your braking system.

Common Brake Issues

Worn Brake Pads

If your brake pads wear too low, you'll need a longer distance to come to a complete stop. Worn brake pads can also damage the rotors. Regularly replacing brake pads, therefore, can help you extend the life of your rotors.

Warped Rotors

Rotors must remain flat to work. Unfortunately, heat damage, mountain driving, or towing can all potentially warp your rotors. If this happens, the vehicle can actually jerk when you apply the brakes. Warped rotors will also keep the car from stopping as quickly as it should.

Brake Fluid Leaks

If you can press your brake pedal to the floor, the culprit could be a leak. Take this issue seriously, because too much brake fluid loss may cause the braking system to fail completely.

Signs You Need Brake Maintenance

• The dashboard light is on. Like we said before, your brake light means business - don't ignore it.
• The breaks squeal as you come to a stop.
• Your car vibrates when you employ the brakes.
• Radial cracks are visible on the braking band.

Proper brake maintenance helps you do more than stay safe on the road. By checking your braking system and changing your pads at regular intervals, you can stay ahead of major problems and even avoid costly repairs.