You can examine your brakes

Regular brake inspections are an essential part of good automotive maintenance that can save you money and prevent your car from winding around the first tree out of your driveway. Make sure your brakes and rotors are receiving proper maintenance by following the steps outlined. Your safety, as well as that of your passengers, pedestrians and other drivers, is at stake.

1. It’s time for a free inspection. Many local brake stores, as well as national brake repair chains, offer customers free brake inspections with no obligation to you. The inspection generally includes the following steps:

  • Check your vehicle’s brake shoes and pads for signs of wear;
  • Fill and / or replace hydraulic fluids;
  • Inspect the rotor / drum and calipers for wear;
  • Examine the antilock braking system [if you have one]

    An annual brake check is advisable, but do it more frequently if you drive well above the national average. [about 15,000 miles per year] or if you make a sudden stop and keep driving.

    2. Consciousness is the key. Most brake system problems can be avoided if drivers pay attention to certain signs of pending problems, including:

  • The brake warning light comes on.
  • Your brake pedal is soft, hard to press, or you must pump the brakes to work properly.
  • Your brakes continually squeak and you hear a loud clang when you push them down.
  • Your car drifts to one side when you hit the brakes, instead of stopping in a straight line.
  • Your car comes to a sudden stop when you press the brakes.
  • One or more wheels are surprisingly hot even after a short ride.
  • Observe fluid leaks in the vicinity of any wheel or in the engine section near the master cylinder.
  • If you’re a home mechanic, you can complete your own inspections and outfit your vehicle with top-notch replacement parts, including brake pads and calipers. You can save on parts by purchasing from a reputable online wholesaler, such as Pit Stop Auto Parts who can offer you the best quality parts at sensible prices, usually much lower than what your dealer or an auto parts store would charge you.

    Take care of your vehicle and it will take care of you, especially in an emergency situation where a properly functioning brake system is an absolute must.

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