The brakes are some of the most important safety features on your car, so they need to be kept in pristine condition. When a mechanic installs new brake pads or rotors, it’s up to you to take good care of them. Maximize the investment by following a few simple steps; these will extend the life span of the brakes for as long as possible.

A Guide to Brake Care

1. Use the Three-Second Rule

If you follow behind other cars too closely, you don’t just risk an accident; you’ll also wear out the brakes prematurely by slamming on them when the driver in front of you does something unpredictable. Give yourself “three seconds” of space. When the car in front of you passes a landmark, such as a sign or tree, count three full seconds before passing it. This means you have a safe buffer for the speed at which you’re moving.

2.  Look Ahead & Coast

Always look ahead of you on the road and coast to a stop whenever possible. Hard braking from a higher speed will put unnecessary strain on the brakes and wear the pad down. For example, take your foot off of the gas pedal when you see a red light or stop sign ahead or brake in light taps rather than constant pressure when going down a hill.

3. Don’t Ride the Brakes

Never use your left foot to apply the brakes; if you sit with your left foot on the pedal, you are constantly applying a light pressure to the pads. This prevents them from cooling down and eventually warps them, which is an expensive issue for a mechanic to fix. Instead, use your right foot, so you know the brakes are only being applied when you are not pushing on the accelerator.

Routine auto care will keep your vehicle running reliably and the brakes in top condition. The mechanics at Professional Automotive have more than 25 years of experience working with both foreign and domestic vehicles in Anchorage, AK. They are Automotive Service Excellence certified and use the latest cutting-edge computer diagnostics technology to provide effective and affordable auto repairs. Visit them online to learn more about their services, or call (907) 562-2471 today to schedule an appointment with a mechanic.