Diagnosing a problem with your car brakes can be tricky—not to mention dangerous. The brakes are vital to the performance of your vehicle, so understanding if they need replacement is an important part of responsible car ownership. You can consider a DIY repair for your brakes, but in most cases it’s best to leave the work to professionals. In the Foley, AL, area, that’s Foley Tire & Auto. They are a full-service maintenance and repair shop, so while you’re having your brakes repaired, you can also request detail service or new tires from their team of expert mechanics.

Whether you choose a professional or do it yourself, there are a few things to consider once you’ve noticed a problem with your brakes.

Complex Brake System

Brake systems are unique to every make and model, which makes it difficult to find clear instructions for DIY repairs. Each brake system comes with a complex layer of parts and components which can break in tandem or separately, so diagnosing and fixing one problem may not mean you’re doing a complete repair. If you miss an issue with your brakes or are unsure how to fix or find the issue, it may cause more harm to your brake system and vehicle.

Hazardous Materials

In addition to your vehicle safety after repairs, it’s important to consider your safety during brake repair. Some system parts like brake pads contain hazardous materials like asbestos dust, which is harmful when inhaled and causes lasting damage over time.

Affordable Professional Repair

Brake repair can be affordable when performed by professionals. It’s important to research what you need and how you can cut costs with a mechanic. Shop around for the lowest prices and find an auto repair shop that uses aftermarket parts vs. OEM parts, which are more affordable but just as useful.

Brake performance is integral to your vehicle’s operation. Consider checking your brake health with Foley Tire & Auto, or scheduling an appointment if you’ve already diagnosed a problem with your brakes. Visit their website, or call (251) 943-9889 today.