The brake system is easily one of your car’s most vital components. Outside of your steering wheel, perhaps no other aspect of your car directly contributes more to your safety. Caring for it is key to preventing injuries as well as costly brake repairs in the future. To stay on top of your vehicle’s health, here’s everything that you should do to properly maintain the brakes.

How to Take Care of Your Brakes

1. Inspect Them Annually

Bring your vehicle to your auto maintenance technician at least once a year to have them inspect the brake rotors, lines, and pads. If the pads appear too worn, have them replaced to prevent the problem from growing worse. If the rotors have been damaged from driving with worn pads, they can usually be machined back to the proper smoothness.

2. Check the Fluid

When you press on the brake pedal, hydraulic brake fluid enables all the parts to move and bring the car to a stop. The fluid travels through brake lines to do its job. When the car runs low on this critical substance, you may notice that the brakes feel spongy or even unresponsive to your commands. Make a habit of checking it every time you change your oil, and expect to replace it at least once every four to five years.

3. Drive With Caution

How you drive can play a big role in preventing unnecessary brake repairs, too. Drive with the flow of traffic to avoid pressing too hard on the brakes. Allow enough room between your car and the one in front of you so that you can easily come to a stop with normal pressure on the brake pedal. Keep in mind that driving fast and braking hard spells trouble for the system, too, as it can cause serious wear on the pads. Avoid slamming down to protect their longevity.

4. Know the Signs

Cars exhibit warning signs when the brake system is in trouble. You might hear a squealing or whining noise when you press on the pedal, for example, or notice that it feels different against your foot than it should. If you notice a pale amber fluid underneath your car, that’s an indication that brake fluid might be leaking. Always have your auto repair technician inspect the car if you’re concerned. They may be able to take care of a minor brake repair before it turns into something catastrophic.

Drivers throughout Foley, AL, trust in the auto maintenance team at Foley Auto & RV Repair. With more than 20 years of experience, the ASE®-certified technicians handle everything from brake repairs to new tire installation. They perform all work in a state-of-the-art facility using only the highest-quality parts. Visit the auto repair experts online to learn more about their services or give them a call at (251) 971-3770.