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Your brakes are essential to the car because they’re responsible for the safety of you and other drivers on the road. Never let your brakes fall into disrepair or ignore the warning signs that they may need maintenance; otherwise, you may create a serious safety hazard. Use this guide to learn how to extend the life of your car’s brakes, how often to schedule maintenance, and how to tell if you need to schedule brake service.

A Guide to Maintaining Your Car’s Brakes

How to Reduce Wear & Tear

Use only one pedal at a time as pressing the brake and gas pedal simultaneously will quickly wear the pads. When coming to a stop, coast the car to slow down, using the brakes only as needed. This will reduce the pressure on the pads. Pay attention to the road and look ahead at stoplights to avoid slamming on the brakes or pressing on them too early. Added weight in your car can also put additional wear on the brakes, so remove unnecessary items before taking a drive.

How Often to Replace Brake Pads

brake serviceDepending on your car and driving habits, you should schedule brake service about every 30,000 miles. Extreme temperatures can also have negative effects on the brakes, so schedule additional inspections in the summer. Using the brakes creates significant amounts of friction, which give off heat. In the summer, the warmer temperature can make it more difficult for the car to disperse the heat, potentially causing your brakes to overheat and become less effective.

Signs Your Brakes Need Servicing

Even with regular brake service appointments, the system may still become damaged due to normal use. Watch for the brake light indicator on the dashboard and schedule an inspection if it illuminates. Additionally, listen for strange sounds coming from the braking mechanism. Squealing, squeaking, and grinding are indications that you should take the car to an auto shop. You should also be wary of wobbling, vibration, and scraping that occurs when you press the brake pedal.

 

Schedule regular brake service at DJ’s Motorsports in Kapolei, HI. For over 25 years, this family-owned and -operated business has provided Oahu drivers with reliable and affordable auto repair. Their team of mechanics can fix and service both drum and disc braking systems in your car, truck, or SUV. Call (808) 677-6222 to schedule an appointment, or learn more about their services online.

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