Brakes exhibit numerous warning signs when they need to be replaced, including a spongy pedal, screeching noises, pulling to one side, and burning odors. As important as it is to be aware of these signs so you can schedule timely auto maintenance, there is plenty you can do to prevent premature replacements. Here are a few tips to extend the life of your brakes.

4 Tips for Prolonging the Life Span of Your Brakes

1. Schedule Routine Fluid Changes

Scheduling regular brake fluid changes by an auto maintenance center keeps the part functional and prevents untimely wear on its metal components. Dirty fluid is full of contaminants and can erode the brakes.

2. Don’t Speed

Keep up with the flow of traffic instead of speeding. Driving too fast is not only dangerous to yourself and other drivers, but it also puts serious stress and heat on your brake pads when you stop. Braking at high speeds uses much more energy to stop your vehicle.

3. Coast Rather Than Ride

Stop continuously hitting your brakes when you are driving downhill, as it heats up the brake pads and wears them out faster. Hit them periodically with small amounts of pressure instead to make your car slow down.

4. Avoid Unnecessary Braking

Don’t brake just because the cars ahead of you are. Get in the habit of coasting to naturally slow your car down. Stop-and-start acceleration and braking put extra strain on your brakes, resulting in premature pad wear.

Put these tips into practice and get your brakes serviced by Dee’s Auto Care Specialists to keep them in good condition. The auto maintenance shop offers three convenient locations in La Crosse and Onalaska, WI, and Winona, MN, and features an Automotive Service Excellence-certified team. Call (608) 782-2530 today to schedule maintenance, or visit the auto repair shop online to learn more about their services.