Brakes are some of the most essential safety equipment on your vehicle. Without them, your car will not be able to stop. Malfunctioning brakes can also be extremely dangerous, especially as we head into winter.
The best way to ensure your vehicle has brakes in good working order is to have them regularly inspected. This inspection should be done by professional mechanics, such as those at Ethan’s Honest Automotive. Mechanics are trained to look for signs of brake wear and fix any issues. To learn more about regular brake inspections and why they are so important, keep reading. Or contact Ethan’s Honest Automotive today.
What is a brake inspection?
First, let’s discuss brake inspections. A brake inspection is a thorough examination of a vehicle’s braking system to assess its condition and ensure proper functionality. Brake inspections are essential for identifying potential issues, wear and tear and ensuring that all components are in good working order.
When you go in for your brake inspection, the mechanic will check the most important brake components, including the following.
- Brake pads
- Brake rotors and drums
- Brake calipers
- Wheel cylinders
- Brake fluid
- Brake hoses
- Master cylinder
- Parking brake
- Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
Once the mechanic is finished with their inspection, they may also take your vehicle on a road test. This process allows them to evaluate the overall braking performance, including pedal feel, responsiveness, and any unusual noises.
If any repairs to the brake system are needed, the mechanic will let you know at the end of their inspection. Then, you can work with them to ensure your brakes are in peak working order.
Why are regular brake inspections so important?
Now, you know what goes into a brake inspection. But, we have not yet discussed why it is so crucial for your vehicle. Here are the most important reasons why you should consider scheduling regular brake inspections.
- Safety assurance: The number one reason you need regular brake inspections is safety. The braking system is what slows down and stops your vehicle. Without it, your vehicle will not be able to stop reliably, endangering the lives of anyone in the car. Regular inspections help identify potential issues before they escalate into safety hazards.
- Early detection of wear and tear: Because you use your brake system every time you are in the vehicle, the brake components are vulnerable to wear and tear. Some components are especially likely to wear out over time. These include the brake pads and rotors. Regular inspections will find any components with too much wear, which allows you to replace them before they cause a brake failure or other problems.
- Prevention of costly repairs: Identifying and repairing brake problems early is typically less expensive. If you let a minor problem escalate, the extensive damage will likely result in costly repairs.
- Maintaining brake fluid integrity: You need the brake fluid to transmit force from the brake pedal to the braking components. As with other brake system components, the brake fluid can get dirty or lose effectiveness over time, which is why it needs to be changed regularly. Your mechanic can change the brake fluid on the correct schedule when you bring your vehicle in for regular brake inspections.
- Preserving fuel efficiency: Finally, a well-maintained braking system indirectly contributes to better fuel efficiency. This result may seem a little far-fetched, but when brakes are in good condition, there is less resistance, and the vehicle can operate more smoothly. A smoother-running vehicle uses less fuel. Therefore, by keeping your brakes in good working order, you will also optimize your fuel efficiency.
How often do you need a brake inspection?
Clearly, regular brake inspections are essential for maintaining the health of your vehicle. However, “regular” is a fairly non-specific term.
While the exact frequency of your brake inspections will vary from vehicle to vehicle, there are some guidelines to consider. Most experts recommend that you have your brakes checked every 20,000-60,000 miles or every six months.
An effective way to remember this schedule is to schedule a brake inspection whenever you get your tires rotated. Not only will you be killing two birds with one stone, but you will also not have to keep two varying maintenance schedules in mind. If you have any questions about when to bring your car in for a brake inspection, the experts at Ethan’s Honest Automotive are here to help.
Signs your vehicle needs a brake inspection.
It is important to schedule regular brake inspections, but sometimes your brakes may have problems between inspections that require another check. If you experience the following signs, you should bring your car to an expert right away.
- Squeaking or squealing: High-pitched noises when braking can be an indication that the brake pads are worn and may need replacement.
- Grinding: A grinding noise when you apply the brakes is often a sign that the brake pads have worn down completely. In that instance, metal-on-metal contact occurs, which can cause serious damage if not addressed immediately.
- Vibration: If you feel vibrations through the brake pedal or steering wheel when braking, the brake rotors may be warped.
- Soft brake pedal: A soft brake pedal may indicate air in the brake lines or a fluid leak, which both compromise the effectiveness of the braking system.
- Warning light: Modern vehicles have warning lights for the brake system on the dashboard. If you see that light on, your brake system has a problem that needs to be addressed by a professional.
- Burning smell: If you smell burning, especially when you are driving or after stopping, you should have overheating brakes.
- Fluid leaks: Noticing brake fluid leaks around the wheels or under the vehicle indicates a fundamental problem. Without proper brake fluid levels, your vehicle will not stop consistently.
If you live in the Cache Valley or Southeastern Idaho and you need a brake inspection, you should contact Ethan’s Honest Automotive. We are your source for the most honest and effective vehicle repair services in the area. You need our excellent customer service, dependability, and expertise in finding and repairing all brake system issues.
