Apart from regular tuneups, avoiding certain driving habits will also extend your vehicle’s life. This is especially true for the braking system, as pressing down on the pedal can cause unnecessary tension, resulting in premature wear. To alleviate strain on the brakes below is a guide to how you should and shouldn’t drive.    

Do:

Slow down in preparation for a stop. 

Speeding up to stop signs and traffic lights and screeching to a halt doesn’t only increase the risk of rear-end collisions. Hard braking also wears down the brake pads and discs faster and causes the rotors to overheat. To avoid damage, ease off the gas pedal while approaching a stop. This places some of the effort to stop on the engine, giving the brakes a rest. 

Avoid constant braking. 

If possible, avoid excessive braking. When mechanical components don’t have to work as often, they won’t wear as quickly. To limit strain on brake pads, rotors, cylinders, and additional parts limit how many stops you make when running errands. For example, try to get all goods at one or two stores instead of driving to multiple shops. This reduces how many times you have to use the brakes. 

Don’t:

Haul unnecessary belongings.

If you use the trunk or interior cabin as a makeshift storage area, clean out the car immediately. Heavy cargo weighs down the vehicle, which means more fuel is burned each time you drive. You’ll also need more frequent auto repairs and tuneups, as the engine, brakes, suspension, and additional components are placed under more strain to make the car move and stop. Lightening the load will alleviate this problem. 

Ride the brakes downhill. 

When driving down a steep slope, you might be tempted to apply pressure to the brakes so you can stop quickly once you reach the bottom. Engaging the brake when driving downhill doesn’t help slow speed, it only generates unnecessary heat, which wears down the system faster. Instead of pressing on the brake, shift to a lower gear when driving downhill. Natural drivetrain compression will slow the car, taking pressure off the pads and rotors.

If your driving habits have led to brake problems or it’s time for a regular tuneup, contact Car Care Clinic at Gateway Transmissions. For 20 years, the technicians have provided auto repairs and tuneups to help motorists in Washington’s Island and Skagit counties make their cars last longer. They will also let you know how other driving behaviors can have a long-term impact on your ride. To schedule brake service in Oak Harbor, call (360) 679-0700 or dial (360) 424-3100 for the Mount Vernon branch. Visit the auto specialists online for service savings and check out their Facebook page for announcements.