If you’re a first-time car owner, you need to learn how to care for your vehicle’s brake system. Though brakes experience wear and tear over time, they may deteriorate prematurely because of poor maintenance and improper driving. Extend the life expectancy of your brakes and put off the costs of auto repair and replacements with the following tips. 

4 Ways to Prolong Your Brakes’ Life Span

1. Don’t Stop From High Speeds

Stopping from high speeds strains your brakes, creating heat and friction that wear down their pads. Look ahead as you drive to anticipate traffic and stoplights so you’ll have plenty of time to slow down. Pump your brakes to allow them to cool while stopping as well. 

2. Coast When Possible

Coasting before you depress the brakes will take some of the stress off them. Minimize wear by removing your foot from the accelerator, letting the car roll, then braking when your vehicle slows by about 10 to 20 miles per hour, especially when you drive on the highway. 

3. Flush Brake Fluid

Change your brake fluid every so often—check your owner’s manual for a recommended interval—especially if your vehicle is used or older. Over time, moisture collects in the brake fluid, which corrodes internal parts. Have an auto repair company flush your brake fluids as well to boost the performance of the mechanical components.

4. Use Only Your Right Foot

Not only is using both feet to drive dangerous, but it also increases the likelihood that you’ll use your brakes unnecessarily. Overusing the brakes diminishes their fluids and wears out their pads. 

The next time you need brake services, take your vehicle to the ASE®-certified auto repair technicians at AutoTech. For over 15 years, they have provided car diagnostics, vehicle inspections, wheel alignments, and transmission repairs to Kealakekua, HI. Call (808) 322-8881 to make an appointment with an auto repair specialist, and visit the website to learn more about their service offerings.