Being able to stop your car is an essential part of driving safely. As such, regular brake service and maintenance is a priority for every driver. In addition to regularly checking the state of your brake pads, follow this maintenance guide to ensure your brakes are in top condition.

How to Maintain Your Brakes

1. Bleed the Brake Line

When you press on the brake pedal, the pressure is diverted through the brake lines through the brake fluid. This pressure then forces the calipers to press down on the brakes and stop the wheels and the car from moving. Over time, air can get trapped in these lines. When this happens, more pressure must be applied to the pedal to activate the calipers, making the vehicle take longer to stop. Scheduling brake service every two to three years to have the lines bled will remove any air that has entered to maintain safe driving conditions.

2. Don't Brake Unnecessarily Hard

Your driving habits strongly affect the life span of your brakes. If you drive in regular stop and go traffic every day, you can expect them to wear much faster than if you were rolling down a clear highway regularly. Also, coming to a quick stop generates more friction between the parts and eats away at the pads at a faster rate. Avoid this excessive damage by giving yourself plenty of time to stop. When you see stopped vehicles or red lights, start slowing down well in advance, so you’re not forced to put full pressure on the brake pedal immediately. 

3. Schedule Regular Brake Service

Knowing the condition of your brakes is a crucial part of staying safe on the road. Have an auto repair technician inspect them at least every six months, or whenever you have your tires rotated. If you drive a lot, it's not a bad idea to have them checked every quarter. Having the brake pads changed before they are too worn will ensure the pedal isn't mushy and stopping isn't delayed. However, the mechanic will also check the state of the rotors, calipers, lines, and brake fluid to ensure all parts are working as they should. 

When it's time to have your brakes inspected, visit Auto World Tire & Auto located in Hazelwood, MO. For 39 years, they have provided tire sales and auto repair services to Hazelwood, Florissant, St. Louis, St. Charles, and the surrounding communities. Their ASA®- and ASE®-certified technicians are dedicated to providing total customer satisfaction, including offering customers a towing or shuttle service while their cars are serviced. Call them today at (314) 895-4455 to schedule a brake service or other repair work. Visit their website to view the tire brands they carry and their full list of services.