Brakes are one of the many components of your vehicle that will need to be replaced or serviced occasionally. However, there are ways to ensure your next brake service is later rather than sooner if you take care with the components and your driving.

4 Good Habits for Your Brakes

1. Remove Unneeded Weight

One of the simplest ways to increase the life of your brakes is to make your vehicle as light as possible, which involves removing any unnecessary gear and luggage. The more weight your car holds, the more friction is put on your brakes when they’re engaged.

2. Come to a Complete Stop

When you stop your vehicle, it disengages your brakes and allows them to rest. A rolling stop or continuing to creep forward keeps constant friction on your brakes, causing them to need brake service sooner.

3. Only Brake When You Need To

While braking is essential when driving, many people do it more often than needed. Instead, plan ahead while driving. Anticipate a stop, allowing your car to coast or roll before pressing the brake. Give yourself three seconds of space when following other drivers to provide plenty of time to slow down.

4. Beware of Road Conditions

A number of road conditions can affect how often you need to have brake service completed, so drive on roads free of excessive dirt, sand, and holes if possible. These adverse conditions may require you to use your brakes more often and hinder your car’s ability to slow down. Dirt and other contaminants may also cause excessive wear and get stuck in your brake system.

If it’s been a while since you had brake service or you’ve noticed inconsistencies in how your vehicle stops, it’s time to bring your car to the trusted ASE®-certified auto repair shop, Precision Auto Repair. They’ve taken care of cars in Kailua-Kona, HI, since 2010. Give them a call at (808) 329-7223 to make an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their services. Look out for Ricky Dollars, which give you $10 off any repair over $50, in the KeOla Magazine .