Drivers ask, “How Often Do I Need Brake Service?”

Are you one of the many drivers who find themselves asking, “How often do I need brake service?” If you’re sliding through stop signs, it is time for an inspection of your brakes. You don’t want to be the cause of an accident because you were unable to stop. Because there is no clear-cut schedule telling you when it’s time to replace brakes, you will need to rely on your what you hear and feel accompanied by the advice of an experienced brake repair technician. You should figure on having your brakes inspected at every tire rotation service, hopefully about every six months.

Be on the alert for these signs of braking problems:

• Dashboard warning light — Some cars incorporate electronic wear indicators that alert the driver with a dashboard warning if the pads reach minimum thickness. If the brake warning light comes on while driving, that probably means your brake system is low on fluid or a problem with the brake master cylinder.
• Strange noises — Many cars have built-in wear sensors that scrape against a brake disc when the pads need replacing creating a screeching sound when applying the brakes (or when the brakes are released). Squeaking, squealing, metal-on-metal grinding is other noises that indicate wear. Cleaning the brakes can help eliminate some of these minor noises.
• Vibrating — Pulsating, vibration or scraping may be felt when applying the brake pedal, likely caused by a warped disc.
• Leaking brake fluid — A burning smell while driving could mean brake fluid is leaking and getting onto hot metal.
• Longer stopping distances — When you apply the brakes your foot goes down to the floor. Because brake linings wear gradually, you may not notice it until it has reached the hazardous stage.
• Car pulls to one side — If the steering wheel tugs or the car pulls to one side or the other during braking, you may have worn brake pads.

Are you asking, “How often do I need brake service?” Contact our ASE Certified technicians at theWrench, Ltd. Car Care Center today at (360) 692-1414 for more information about brake repair and to schedule an appointment. Our auto shop proudly serves residents in Silverdale, WA, and the surrounding area.