When it comes to auto repair, brake maintenance is high on the priority list to ensure safety and your ability to stop instantly whenever necessary. The process of replacing brake pads is quick and seamless when you work with the right auto mechanic. That being said, here are a few ways you can extend the lifespan of your brakes in the name of budgeting and vehicle performance. 

What Are the Best Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Car’s Brakes?

1. Remove Unnecessary Weight

The more weight inside your vehicle, the harder your brakes have to work in order to come to a stop. For preservation, remove unnecessary loads from your trunk and backseat whenever possible. In addition to mediating the need for brake repair, you’ll also enjoy better fuel efficiency. 

2. Embrace the Three-Second Rule

In stop-and-go traffic, you end up in constant cycling of braking and accelerating that wears down your equipment. To reduce damage, embrace the three-second rule and maintain three second’s worth of “distance” between you and the vehicle ahead when you’re driving. This way, the odds of needing to stop quickly to avoid a collision is minimized. 

3. Drive Cautiously 

Brake pads experience wear and tear based on your driving habits. Avoid the need to slam on your brakes by driving cautiously with the flow of traffic. Plan ahead so you have plenty of time to get to your destination. This way, you won’t have to stress or feel the temptation to switch lanes and navigate traffic aggressively in order to arrive on time. 

4. Address Warning Signs

Pay attention to your vehicle’s performance when commuting. When you notice squealing, whining, grinding, leaking fluid, a change in how your pedal responds, or the brake light on your dashboard becomes illuminated, call your auto repair shop right away for an inspection. 

If you’re experiencing any of the warning signs noted above, Kettering-Oakwood Automotive is ready to provide efficient, quality brake repair at a fair price. With a convenient location in Dayton, OH, drivers throughout Montgomery County can depend on this auto repair shop for honest service focused on extending the lifespan of your vehicle. To schedule a free work estimate, call today at (937) 299-2468. To read verified reviews from existing customers, visit their website.