Breaking Down Your Brakes: What the Average Driver Needs to Know

Posted December 11, 2023

Your vehicle’s brakes are arguably one of its most critical systems, allowing you to reduce speed and bring your car or truck to a safe stop. Paying attention to brake services ensures the safety of both you and everyone around you while out on the roads. Here’s more information as to why your brakes are one of the most important parts of your vehicle.

Understanding Brake Components

The brake system uses friction to take kinetic energy from your moving wheels and turn it into heat energy. This happens when the brake pads press against the rotor, which is attached to your wheel hub. Essential brake components include the pads, rotors, brake fluid and lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, the master cylinder, and various hardware. All the parts work together hydraulically to decrease momentum when the pedal is pressed.

Inspecting Your Brakes

Because brake services directly relate to safety and vehicle control, you should have your brake system inspected by a certified technician at least once a year. They will assess the thickness of your brake pads and rotors of each wheel. Having proper material thickness ensures adequate friction to stop your vehicle. The technician will also check the hydraulic components for signs of leaking or contamination of the brake fluid. Catching minor problems now can avoid brake failure down the road.

Knowing When It’s Time For Repairs

Pay attention while driving so that you can notice any changes in brake performance that would require brake services. Signs you may need new brake pads include hearing squealing or grinding noises when braking, feeling the brake pedal pulsate or vibrate when stopping, or noticing your vehicle takes longer to slow down. Spongy brake pedal feel often means issues with hydraulic brake lines or contaminated fluid. Any changes in expected brake behavior should have the system inspected and repaired by a certified mechanic as soon as possible for everyone’s safety.

Having dependable, high-performing brakes vastly reduces the chance of collisions and accidents when driving your vehicle. Prioritizing brake services ensures the systems work properly year after year. Brake inspections coupled with repairs or replacements when necessary provide peace of mind that you can count on your brakes to respond adequately and safely every time. If you’re in need of brake services, you’ll have many vendors to choose from. A recent study found that by the end of 2022, the global automotive repair and maintenance market is expected to exceed $836 billion. If you’re looking for a dependable service in Oregon, schedule an appointment with our team at Real Tech Auto & Truck Repair today.

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