Everything You Need To Know About Brake Maintenance

What You Need to Know About Brake Maintenance

If you’re a car owner, then having regular maintenance and repairs conducted on your vehicle should always be a top priority, just like purchasing car insurance or practicing safe driving habits. While not every trip to the mechanic is going to be extensive or major, regular maintenance is essential nonetheless. Common repairs and maintenance that should be conducted on your vehicle include:

• Oil changes
• Tire rotations
• Battery checks
• Air filter replacement
• Engine coolant refills
• Transmission fluid changes
• Aligning tires
• Fluid checks
• Replacing air filter
• Inspecting belts and hoses
• Diagnostics on check engine lights
• Brake checks

While all of these are important, your brakes are an especially critical part of your car, so checking them should always be a high priority. Here are some key reasons why you should have your brakes checked below:

1. For Your Safety

The most compelling reason to have your brakes checked is for both your own safety and the safety of those with you on the road. Without regular brake inspections, it can be very difficult to know if something is wrong or if repairs are indicated. If an unexpected mechanical failure occurs, it can be extremely dangerous, as you may not be able to stop the vehicle. Regular maintenance keeps you safe while driving and prevents catastrophic accidents.

2. For Your Car’s Health and Longevity

Another good reason to get into the habit of regular car maintenance is for the longevity of your car. Putting off repairs and maintenance can cause issues to become worse and create additional stress on the mechanics of your vehicle. Regular vehicle checks ensure that everything is working smoothly and in good condition.

3. To Prevent More Expensive Repairs

While maintenance can at times be costly, it can also help you save money in the long term. Regular maintenance allows you to catch issues before they turn into something worse and quickly remedy the problem. Consider it a long-term investment in your vehicle that will help keep the engine running for many more years.

When to Get Your Breaks Checked

In general, having your brakes checked around every six months is sufficient. Many people opt to have them checked at the same time they have their tires rotated. However, there are certain signs and symptoms that can indicate an immediate problem. You should have your brakes checked as soon as possible if you notice any of the following issues:

• You’re hearing high-pitched screeching or squeaking sounds
• There is visible wear or damage to your car’s brake pads
• There are puddles of fluid under your car
• Your brake pedal is grinding or vibrating
• There’s been a change in brake sensitivity
• There’s a low brake fluid light on

Schedule Your Break Service

If you’re experiencing one of the above issues with your brakes, or if it’s been a while since you’ve had them checked, don’t wait! Click here to request a service appointment with our friendly repairs team at Red McCombs Toyota.