Good brake maintenance is essential for keeping you and your family safe on the roads. It is also important for the health of your car and its overall life span. Failure to maintain your brakes can lead to costly repairs, reduced stopping power and even a car accident.
Start by regularly checking your brakes’ wear. This can be done by removing the wheel and inspecting the pads and disc rotors. If your pads are less than 10 millimetres in thickness, then they will need to be replaced. The disc rotors should also be examined for any visible wear. Replace the discs if they are pitted or scored. If a rotor is too far gone, it will typically be cheaper to replace them in sets of two.
Check your car’s brake fluid levels and make sure you are using the correct type. Brake fluid is typically a coloured liquid (usually either clear or slightly yellow) and should be used as recommended by the manufacturer of your car. It should also be changed every two years or 24,000 miles.
Inspect your brake lines for signs of corrosion or leaks. If you suspect that there may be an issue, get it checked by a professional mechanic immediately. Leaking brake fluid can cause serious damage to your braking systems and even increase your risk of an accident.
Make sure that you have the correct wheels for your vehicle. Lightweight wheels sometimes come fitted with brakes that are too small for the car, which decreases their stopping power. Consult the car’s manual to determine which size wheel and brakes your car requires.
Finally, ensure that your car is serviced regularly and its wheels are re-aligned if necessary. Re-aligning the wheels can increase braking efficiency and give you more control over your car’s movement. If you think your brakes need more attention than usual, consider having them professionally inspected, as this can help to identify any minor problems before they become major issues.
The above guidelines should help you maintain your brakes for the long-term. Regularly check your brakes’ wear and check for signs of fluid leaks or corrosion. Make sure you have the correct wheel size and have your car serviced regularly. Doing this will help to ensure that your brakes stay in good condition and keep you and your family safe on the roads.
