Is It Time to Check Your Brakes?

There are many important parts and components in your vehicle, and brakes are definitely essential. Sometimes they're the only thing between you and an accident. Getting your brakes checked and serviced regularly is equally important. Keep reading to find out more about brakes and how they function and when it's time to have them checked.

A Primer on Brakes.

The most common brakes in most modern vehicles are disc brakes. But how do they work? When you step on the brake pedal, a set of calipers, equipped with pads, squeeze a rotor (sometimes called the disc), creating friction to slow down your car. It's a hydraulic system that depends on a steady flow of brake fluid, and the energy of motion is converted into waste heat.

If any of these parts aren't functioning correctly, the vehicle's entire system may fail. Generally, when your brakes aren't working well, the usual culprits are the brake pads. Pads should be at least one quarter of an inch thick. Brake pads wear down over time, and if they aren't changed, they can lead to worse problems – like damage to the rotor.

Location Matters.

Unlike more rural areas, areas with heavy traffic are harder on your brake system. Congestion means frequent stops, starts, veering and slowing, and all of these put more stress on your brakes, meaning they're more likely to need service sooner.

You should also have your brakes checked whenever you have your vehicle's tires rotated, usually every six months. If you're a more aggressive driver, it's a good idea to have them checked more frequently, such as with every oil change.

Warning Signs.

It's time to have your brakes checked out when the in-dash brake light comes on. And if it's taking longer to come to a total stop, it's especially important to have them looked at as soon as possible. Also, if you notice a vibration when applying the brakes, it's an indicator of a brake pad or alignment problem.

You may also hear a screeching or squealing sound unless you have your brake pads changed when they're due. That sound, although annoying, happens when the calipers grind against the rotors when the brake pedal is pressed. When this happens, an inexpensive fix can turn into an expensive one.

Be Smart. Be Vigilant. Be Safe.

At Genesis of North Atlanta, we strive to provide superior service. We're committed to serving you beyond our showroom, and we want to ensure that you and your passengers are safe when on the road. You can depend on us to make sure all of your vehicle's parts are in good shape.