As an essential component of every vehicle, the brakes must be reliable when you’re driving. Although you will need brake service to replace the pads every 50,000 miles, you should ensure the safety of your vehicle with regular maintenance. Below are a few ways you can extend the life span of this equipment.

How to Maintain a Car’s Brakes

1. Flush the Fluid Regularly

To help your brakes work more efficiently and prolong the life of your car’s internal components, you should bleed and flush the fluid lines. Brake fluid attracts moisture from the air, which can contaminate the liquid, reduce its efficiency, and corrode the metal. Take your car to a brake service technician to perform the bleed and flush process every two years to ensure safety.

2. Don’t Overload the Car

Though you may not pack your car with belongings every time you drive, adding weight to the vehicle consistently will force the brakes to work harder to stop. Keep your car as light as possible, except for the few occasions when you have to pack luggage or transport passengers. Problems with additional weight also extend to aftermarket changes to the vehicle, including customizations to wheels and body panels, so be cautious when making those adjustments.

3. Avoid Speeding

Driving at high speeds will damage your brakes because it becomes harder to stop. Even a small mileage increase of 10 mph can strain the equipment and wear them down faster. Stay safe on the road and prolong your brake pads’ life span by slowing down. Also, let the car coast over short distances and stop naturally so that you don’t wear down the pads prematurely. 

4. Inspect the Brakes

Neglecting your brake pads can damage other auto parts, such as the rotors. Instead of waiting until you hear grinding noises from the pads, have an auto mechanic inspect the brakes whenever you schedule a tire change, rotation, or alignment. They can spot problems early, which will protect your braking system and other wheel components. 

Keep your vehicle safe on the road by reaching out to Mullanphy Tire & Automotive for reliable brake service. This leading auto repair shop in Florissant, MO, has been providing exceptional services to drivers throughout the area for decades. Their skilled, certified technicians can handle everything from routine auto maintenance to engine repairs for all makes and models. Call (314) 921-4961 to receive an estimate for your brake service or repair needs. Visit them online to learn more about all they have to offer.