Brake Repair

6 Ways To Keep Your Brakes Working All Year Long

April 21, 2020 by admin

What’s one of the most crucial systems in a car? The brake system should be one of the first to pop into mind.

No matter how much you drive, your brakes are used over and over again throughout the trip. You use them to stop. You use them to slow down. And while you might not think of them much, you would if they ever started to fail.

Keeping them working their best is crucial. No matter what the Colorado weather throws at you, it’s important to be able to stop on a dime.

What the car experts say

Depending on what make and model you drive, your car will need to have new brakes installed every 25,000 to 65,000 miles. Of course, this is just a general rule of thumb. The number of miles you drive is only one of the determinants for how long your brakes will last.

A vehicle’s brake system is complicated. In contains multiple pieces that each need to be monitored separately, to ensure it works together as one complete system.

Brake pads – these are replaced more frequently than any other part in the braking system.
Brake rotors – these are the part of the brake system attached to the wheels. They are one of the most difficult to judge for lifespan.
Brake fluid – it needs periodic checking to ensure it’s at its full level.
Brake clamps and lines – these are designed to last the life of the car, barring no damage from accidents or rough driving conditions.

While parts wear down due to age and mileage, there are also a few other ways you can help keep your brakes working and extend their life, to ensure your safety no matter what the driving conditions.

Stop speeding

One of the biggest enemies of your braking system is speed. The higher your speed, the more effort is needed by the braking system to bring your car to a stop. Think about it for a moment, and it becomes obvious that the brakes would wear more trying to bring a car going 65 or 70 miles per hour to a stop than it would a vehicle traveling at 30 miles per hour.

We’re not suggesting that you slow down on the highway to try and save your brakes. Instead, it’s a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and travel at the speed limit and for travel conditions. If you’re racing through town traveling at the highest speed possible, chances are you’re going to be pouncing on the brakes a lot to maneuver through traffic. Slowing it down means you’ll fit in better with the traffic around you.

Drive with one foot only

It used to require two feet to drive – one for the brake and gas pedal, the other for the clutch. Most cars have eliminated the need for a clutch, yet some people haven’t removed the need for wanting to drive with their left foot.

If you use your left foot for the brakes, you have a better chance of applying pressure – even the lightest pressure – to the brake pedal long before it’s needed. That means the two actions will counter each other. You’ll be applying gas to go while at the same time causing a dragging action by having the brake system engaged. This is known as brake riding, and it can significantly lower the number of miles between brake jobs.

If this is your new habit, find a firm place for your left foot far away from the brake pedal and leave it there. Your brakes and your gas mileage will thank you.

Stop tailing

We get it; traffic can be horrendous on some days. A drive that would normally take you minutes can sometimes double or triple in the heart of rush hour. You’re in a hurry. You try and “push” the person in front of you to go faster. Guess what? It won’t work.

When you’re antsy, sitting in traffic, you tend to ride close to the car in front of you. That means you’re more likely to have to punch down on the brake pedal more often as you adjust to different road conditions.

Keeping your distance means you can apply pressure softer, which doesn’t wear onto the brake pads as quickly. Leave a little earlier and stop stressing about the drive.

Handle braking in the mountains the right way

Depending on where you live, you might face mountain driving on a regular basis. But even if you just head up into the hills for weekend ski trips, practice good mountain driving behavior to keep your brakes working the way they should.

Here’s how.

As long as the roads are safe to drive on, no icy or wet conditions, use your gears to bring you down in elevation instead of riding your brakes. Most cars, even automatics, have the ability to shift into a lower gear. This slows the vehicle down through engine power rather than riding your brakes.

This is also a safety issue. If you leave the brake pads engaged for miles coming back down into the city, heat can build and possibly cause the braking system to fail.

Control your weight

Did you know that the average SUV weighs can weigh 5,000 pounds or more? That’s empty, without passengers or cargo.

The trouble with SUVs is they have a lot of cargo space. And that means you can throw in a variety of things for the “just in case” and leave it there as storage. All of that adds extra weight, which requires more from your braking system to bring the vehicle to a stop.

Follow the three-second rule

If you think back to your driving school days, you’ll recall the instructor telling you to leave three-seconds between you and the car in front of you. It’s still great advice.

Leaving space gives you a longer reaction time. It means you won’t be pouncing on your brakes in stop and go traffic, and can tap on the brake pedal lightly to slow down. This saves on the wear and tear of your entire braking system.

Drive smarter and keep your brakes working longer

Your entire braking system – brake pads, brake rotors, drums – it all needs maintenance and replacement eventually. Stick with manufacturers’ guidelines to determine what’s right for your vehicle. If you think something’s wrong, or nearing the dates in your owner’s manual, don’t wait for the problem to grow. Stop by today and get your brakes checked.

Stay safe.

Do I Really Need New Brakes?

February 28, 2020 by admin

When you buy a new car, it’s only a matter of time before you start replacing and repairing. The average car has around 30,000 parts. While some wear down quicker than others, every day your car works hard providing you with reliable service. It faces all kinds of weather elements, many different types of driving conditions.

Your car’s brake system contains dozens of those parts. A brake system is designed to transfer force from your foot, through the brake pedal, and ultimately to the wheels, tires, and the road. If every part does its job effectively, you’ll stop without issue. But over time, each of those parts can start to wear and fail. If enough of them have problems without being corrected, that force might not be there for you when you tap down on the brake pedal. If this happens, you need new brakes. Without them, you’re putting you and others around you at risk.

The parts of a brake system

Before we get into the determinants of why you may need new brakes, let’s talk about how the brake system works.

For you, the driver, the braking system begins with the brake pedal. Located inside your vehicle, the more pressure you apply to it, the greater the force within the braking system. Push down hard on the brake pedal and you’ll eventually come to a stop.

As you press down on the pedal, it’s connected to a piston located in the master cylinder. The master cylinder controls wheel movement and hydraulic pressure of the brake fluid. As you push the pedal, pistons move, and valves open up in the master cylinder. Brake fluid passes through a series of tubes and hoses, moving into the brake cylinders.

Depending on your vehicle, you may have either drum brakes, disc brakes, or a combination of both. Drum brakes may be located on the rear wheels. As you apply the brakes, brake fluid moves to the wheel cylinder, pushing the brake shoe into the brake drum, slowing the car down. Disc brakes work when brake fluid moves from the master cylinder, giving force to a caliper which presses against a piston. This piston squeezes two separate brake pads onto a disc rotor located on each wheel. The friction of this action is what slows the vehicle.

Anti-lock brakes provide greater safety. If the anti-lock system detects your wheels locking up, it takes over and rapidly pumps the brakes, giving you more traction against the road.

Each piece of this braking system has dozens of tinier parts, all with the potential to loosen, wear, fall off, or eventually fail. Of course, you might not notice if one bolt or screw is missing. That takes time as more parts continue to wear down. But eventually, your car starts telling you something is wrong, You need new brakes, and if you don’t replace them soon, you will have problems.

How can you tell when you need new brakes?

Because cars are made by humans, we’ve built in a variety of warning signs to alert a driver to potential problems. Rarely will the brake system fail without giving you advanced notice something is wrong.

From the moment you start driving your car, notice the details. How it feels to push down on the brake pedal. The noises your car makes. The way it performs.

Then, when the warning signs occur, you’ll be more aware and notice them as they happen.

If you push down on the brake pedal and you hear a squeaking or squealing noise, you might need new brakes. If you push down on the accelerator and it feels like it’s going all the way to the floor, it’s another sign something is wrong within the braking system.

If you notice a problem once, it’s a sign you should start paying attention. If you hear a squeal, for example, it might be dirt or grime that has settled in on the surface. As you tap the brakes a few times, the sound goes away, and you don’t hear it again.

Your eyes and ears are one of the most critical parts of your vehicle’s systems. They can tell you something is changing, something is wrong. Rather than wait for more damage to occur, that’s when it’s time to bring your car in for a checkup. Replacing small, inexpensive parts is much easier timewise and on your wallet.

How often do you need to replace brakes?

Luckily, your braking system isn’t like gasoline or motor oil. You don’t have to replace parts on a regular basis. In general, car manufacturers suggest brake pads be replaced after about 50,000 miles. Of course, that changes depending on the make and model of your car. It also depends on the way you drive.

Your driving habits – if you’re an aggressive driver, tapping the brake pedal all the time, your brake pads are going to wear out quicker than a more passive driver. Smooth braking is always easier on the braking system than having to stomp on the brakes.

Your location – we live in a state with all kinds of driving conditions. You might sit in rush hour traffic daily. You might perform the stop-and-go dance several hours each day. You might live in the foothills, controlling your speed by tapping on the brake pedal again and again.

Your brake pads – brake pads come in several types, several different materials. They are installed based on your make and model, as well as for the way you drive. Some perform better in an urban setting, while others are made for higher performance. They wear at different rates.

Is a brake service necessary?

Think about all your vehicle goes through each year. Here in Denver, it can operate as temperatures drop below 0 degrees, or climb over 100. Your car provides safety and security as you make your way through city and highway driving. Road conditions change – slush and snow can deposit minerals and grime throughout your braking system.

While you might not need new brakes, it’s still a good idea to let a mechanic inspect your brakes periodically to ensure they are in top shape, working the way they should.

A Guide To Anti-Lock Brakes

February 10, 2020 by admin

If you’ve ever driven an older car, stomped on the brake pedal, trying to get the car to stop quickly, only to feel the cart slide and swerve, you know how scary it can be not to have full control over your vehicle. ABS – anti-lock braking system – is designed to give you more control in more situations.

The concept of anti-lock brakes actually started almost 100 years ago. Engineers were looking for an override system for aircraft, and ABS technology became the standard to prevent the wheels from sticking as the plane rapidly decelerated.

In the 1950s, ABS technology moved to motorcycles to improve safety and handling. And slowly, it was introduced into vehicles over the course of the next few decades. By the 1990s, anti-lock brakes were standard issue on most production line vehicles.

How do anti-lock brakes work?

Let’s talk a bit about how anti-lock brakes work. If you think back to your lessons in drivers ed, you might remember how they taught you to take control over your car if you hit a patch of ice. If the brakes won’t work and you slide, pump the brakes instead by pressing down on the brake pedal and letting go, over and over again. This helps your tires look for traction instead of continuing to slide.

That same concept explains how ABS is designed to work. If you suddenly want to come to a stop and apply a lot of pressure to fast-moving wheels, that intense pressure can cause your wheels to lockup. This will typically cause them to lose traction, and you’ll slide and skid uncontrollably.

ABS is designed to prevent this. Anti-lock brakes use sensors to determine the motion of your wheels. When you press down on the brake pedal, these sensors activate and monitor the wheel movement to determine the action. If it senses lockup, it turns on the ABS, which pumps your brakes instead of locking them up. The timing of it occurs with precision, thanks to technology, a vast improvement over what you could do simply by tapping your brake pedal over and over again.

Why are my anti-lock brakes coming on?

Your vehicle is technology-driven, with every part working together to keep you safe. Every new year brings new technology to light, meaning if you have the latest production car, technically, it will have the safest features on the market.

If you’ve ever stepped on your brake pedal and had the ABS turn on, you might have felt a vibration. Depending on your car, you may have a small dashboard light turn on as well, telling you your anti-lock brake system has been activated.

Based on road conditions, the vehicle’s technology has determined it needs ABS to keep the car safe. In some cases, the pulsing of the brake system may not stop the car as quickly as it normally does. But it has determined that this action is better to bring your car to a stop, and risk sliding or skidding out of control.

Where is the anti-lock brake?

The good news is most new cars on the road today have anti-lock brakes. If you’re driving an older car or truck and wish to determine if you have ABS, there are several ways you can go about it.

The easiest is to check your owner’s manual.

If you don’t have access to your owner’s manual, you can check your dashboard instrument panel. As you turn your car on, yet before you turn it to start, all lights will flash on. Think of this as “test” mode. If your car has ABS, it will be illuminated at this time. Look for a light that either says “anti-lock” or “ABS.”

If you have a basic understanding of the parts of the car, you can also pop the hood and take a look inside. The anti-lock brake pump will sit near the brake master cylinder, and be connected to several different lines.

The final way is to physically look at the setup of the wheel. You’ll have to get into position to be able to see the brakes on the front wheels. If your car has anti-lock brakes, you’ll see a flexible hose attached to the brake caliper, with a wire attached to a speed sensor in the hub of the wheel. This sensor will be missing if your car doesn’t have ABS.

How do you test anti-lock brakes?

The best way to ensure your anti-lock brakes are working is to check that the warning light illuminates on your dashboard during test mode every time you turn your vehicle on. If you don’t see the icon light up, it’s best to let your mechanic check it out and ensure everything is working correctly.

Likewise, if your ABS light turns on at any point while you’re driving your vehicle, schedule a maintenance visit as soon as possible to ensure your braking system is working the way it should.

How long do ABS controls last?

ABS is designed to work in all kinds of conditions, and be there for you no matter when you need it. It’s not something you turn on, or that you have to change out the fluid for on a regular basis. But like any other part, it can wear out over time.

As anti-lock brakes initiate, you’ll feel a slight pulsating mechanism underneath your foot. It clicks, and then it creates rise and fall in the system, which you can feel by having your foot on the brake pedal. This is known as the ABS control module.

The brakes are one of the essential systems in your vehicle. You use them every day, dozens of times, as you move in and out of traffic to accomplish all you do on your drive. The anti-lock brake system is separate from your brakes. That means even if the ABS fails, you’ll still have your braking system to rely on.

Under most conditions, ABS will last the life of your car. But because it is electronic, it can suffer from several things, including an electrical overload, or overheating due to high temperatures. If the ABS light comes on, one of our professional mechanics will replace the control panel.

Is your ABS working correctly? Is your braking system keeping you safe? We can ensure everything on your vehicle is working correctly, to ensure the safety of you and your family.

Brake Fluid Low? This Is How You Know

February 7, 2020 by admin

What happens when you push down on the brake pedal?

Your car slows and eventually comes to a stop.

Touch it lightly, and it slows just a bit. Stomp on it, and you can stop in mere seconds. According to the National Association Of City Transportation Officials, the average vehicle going 60 mph will come to a resting point in 4.4 seconds. You’ll feel that motion if you stop at that rate, but it can be done.

However, the only way that can happen is if your braking system is working the way it should.

How the brake system works

Brakes are actually pretty straightforward in the way they operate. We’ve written about it here and here. But for the sake of this article, we’ll condense it into one paragraph format.

When you press down on the brake pedal, it pushes an internal lever that increases the pushing force. This lever pushes a piston into a cylinder filled with hydraulic fluid, also known as brake fluid. The fluid condenses and squeezes out through the end, down a pipe until it reaches another cylinder located at the wheel. Here, it pushes another piston with increased force. It connects with the brake pad and pushes it towards the brake disc. As the brake pad touches the brake disc, friction between the two heats, causing the outer wheel and tire to slow and eventually stop.

This basic principle happens four times over, for every line to every wheel on your car.

What makes it all possible is the brake fluid. It’s what increases the pressure to the point of making the mechanics of the braking system work.

It’s time to check your brake fluid levels

You’re already in the habit of checking your motor oil on a regular basis. Low brake fluid is equally important. Yet keep in mind that brake fluid doesn’t need to be changed out as frequently as motor oil, nor is it as vulnerable as the oil used to keep your engine running clean.

However, brake fluid is a vital fluid needed to keep your car running smoothly. It can be the difference of being able to stop your car whenever you desire, or not.

Like your motor oil, checking your brake fluid should be a part of your regular maintenance plan. Especially if you notice your brakes not behaving as they should. Do your brakes feel spongy when you press down on the brake pedal? It’s time to check your brakes. Do you hear a squeal as you tap on the brakes? It’s definitely time for a check up.

Like motor oil, brake fluid can have a variety of things wrong with it. If it’s low, there might be a leak somewhere in the system. If it’s contaminated, it means dirt and grime has found a way inside.

Brake fluid impacts every part of the braking system, the brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake lines. And if the brake fluid doesn’t have the proper makeup, chances are it’s impacting any or all of these parts in various ways. A thorough inspection is needed to ensure your brakes are working the way they should.

Finding the brake fluid reservoir

Keep in mind that filling your brake fluid reservoir isn’t like topping up your motor oil. You can’t run to your local auto parts store and buy just any brake fluid sitting on the shelf. It takes knowledge to ensure you’re purchasing the right product, and skill to fully clean the system as you change it out. Still, having a general understanding can make you a more well informed driver and car owner.

The brake fluid reservoir is typically a plastic canister that is mounted near the rear of the engine compartment. It’s usually near the driver’s side brake booster. If you can’t find it, consult your owner’s manual or do a search online for your make and model. It will point you in the right direction.

Most newer vehicles use a translucent plastic with a fill line, so you can immediately tell if the brake fluid is low. Older vehicles might have a metal reservoir, with a clamp securing the top into place. Different vehicles have different rules about opening up the lid. Follow guidelines exactly or risk contaminating the brake fluid. Exposure to moist air can contaminate the fluid in just a few minutes, so it’s important to know what you’re doing before you open it up.

Brake fluid looks okay if …

The first check is to ensure you have enough brake fluid in the system. Does the brake fluid levels reach the fill line?

If it doesn’t, that can be a warning sign your brake pads are wearing thin. This is because as brake pads wear down, they take more action to work. The piston will need to move farther into the system, requiring more fluid to complete the process.

If the fluid level looks okay, the second step is to inspect the fluid itself. Brake fluid is normally a clear or light gold color. If it turns brown or black, the brake fluid is contaminated and it needs to be replaced. As dirt enters the system, it slowly changes the coloring, giving the fluid its darker appearance. It allows dirt and other contaminants into the braking system, which in turn can damage other parts.

Adding brake fluid

As a general rule, you should have your brake fluid replaced about every two years. Of course, this depends on a variety of things, including your drive style, the make and model of your car. Check your owner’s manual for recommended guidelines. One of our experienced mechanics can also provide you with more information.

Different vehicles require different brake fluid. You can’t mix and match. If you use an incorrect formula, or overfill your brake fluid reservoir, you risk having your brakes working incorrectly. Most systems use either DOT3 or DOT4 brake fluid. Consult your owner’s manual, or find the information located on the brake fluid reservoir cap.

Brake fluid is toxic and highly corrosive, so proper protection is needed anytime you deal with brake fluid.

Once brake fluid is changed, it also requires testing and bleeding the brakes.

Don’t have the tools or the knowledge to test your brakes yourself? Let one of our mechanics help. We’ll ensure your brakes are safe and well cared for, and have you back on the road in no time.

Schedule your maintenance visit today.

Does Suspension Impact Brake Wear?

January 14, 2020 by admin

It’s estimated that the average car on the road today has over 30,000 parts. And while it’s not important to know every part, you should learn the basic systems and how they operate. This helps you stay on top of the condition of your car, and can alert you to when things go wrong.

Let’s start by discussing the braking system and your suspension, and how the two work together.

How car brakes work

A car’s braking system is fairly simple to understand. When you press down on the brake pedal, the car slows down or stops. If you’ve ever ridden a bicycle, you know how the process works.

The brake pedal is connected to a part called the master cylinder with a metal rod. The master cylinder chamber is filled with brake fluid, which is what makes the brake system work. Brake lines are connected from the master cylinder to the brake calipers, which give passageway for the brake fluid to flow.

When you press down on the brake pedal, the metal rod moves up and down, compressing the brake fluid in the master cylinder. As pressure builds, it moves through the brake lines and creates the force the brake system needs to operate. More force on the brake pedal pushes more pressure in the brake line, and ultimately more force for stopping the car.

When you take your foot off the brake pedal, it releases the pressure via spring action. It moves back to resting position, releasing the brakes at each wheel and allowing the car to move freely.

How steering and suspension work

The steering and suspension work together to keep your car under control.

The steering system gives you directional control over your vehicle. The suspension system supports the weight of your vehicle and gives it a smooth ride, while providing stability for the current road conditions. Together, they keep your car under control and give you both drivability and handling.

If you’ve ever had a problem with your steering, you’ve probably heard the term “rack and pinion.” This is one of the most common steering systems used for many cars on the road today. As you turn your steering wheel, it’s rotating on a pinion. This movement rotates a rack, which controls the direction of your wheels from one angle to another. Think of the rack and pinion as a gear shift that work together. As you rotate the steering wheel, the pinion catches in the circular gear connected to the rack, giving you a turning radius.

While rack and pinion is one of the most popular, it isn’t the only format. Other popular types of steering design include parallelogram steering, which includes power steering pumps, Pitman arms, idler arms, and a center link. They have joints and levers work together to form the modern day steering and suspension system.

Ultimately, no matter what type of steering and suspension system you have, the goal is to provide you with a smooth ride.

How brakes and steering and suspension work together

It should be fairly easy to see how the two systems work together. The steering and suspension provide stability to keep you safe on the road, while the braking system gives you the control you need to adjust to traffic conditions.

If your suspension is off, your car won’t handle well when braking. It may nosedive. It can cause you to swerve. All of which can cause you to pound on the brakes, wearing them out before their time.

Does your car have problems with the suspension? Have you noticed any of these signs?

Your car rides roughly

Every system in your vehicle is designed to tell you in advance that it’s reaching end of life. When the shocks and struts of your suspension system are wearing out, you’ll start to feel every bump on the road. Have you noticed a bounce when you ride? That’s an indication your suspension system is having problems.

Your car drifts or pulls as you turn

When a car’s suspension system fails, it starts to drift or pull as you make a turn. This means the shocks are no longer doing their job to keep your car stable as it moves through turns. This can increase your risk of rollover if you take the turn too fast.

Your car nose dives as you stop

When shocks wear out, you’ll likely feel the car nose dive as you apply the brakes. This can reduce the stopping power of your brakes, meaning it will take more distance to safely come to a stop.

Your tires will wear unevenly

Glance at your tire tread from time to time. If you see uneven wear, it could be a sign your suspension system isn’t doing its job. It applies pressure on the tires in different ways, creating bald spots in certain places.

Your shocks are oily

If you take a look under your vehicle, or glance at the ground as you drive away, do you notice wet spots? It a greasy, oily liquid appears where your shocks and struts were lined up, it could be they are leaking fluid. Anytime fluid leaks, it’s a sign the system isn’t doing its job at full capacity.

Try the bounce test

One of the easiest ways you can determine if your suspension system isn’t working is to apply the bounce test. With the car in park, press down on the hood of the car, then release. Do the same thing on the trunk. If the car bounces as you release it, it’s a sign your suspension system is wearing out.

Do you have a problem with your brakes, steering or suspension system? We can help.

Your brakes and suspension system are designed to help your vehicle function properly, while giving you a safe, smooth ride. Letting either system continue to operate at a less-than-optimal rate puts you at risk as well as costs you money as more damage continues to accrue.

Stop by today and let assess your vehicle’s performance. Together we can help keep you on the road longer, and enjoy the ride.

How To Ensure Your Car’s Brake System Is Working The Way It Should

December 29, 2019 by admin

Winter in Colorado means snow. A lot of snow. Historically, Denver will receive around 55 inches of snow each winter season. And if you’re not prepared for it, you will pay the price.

For drivers, that means having a car that’s ready for anything. From icy roads to snowpack several inches deep, the last thing you need on your commute is to worry about your safety.

That’s why it’s the most important time of the year to ensure your brakes are properly maintained. Poor brake maintenance not only puts your safety at risk, but it also decreases performance and longevity of the system overall. Your car is an intricate series of parts that work together. When one part is off, it can throw everything else into chaos as well.

With your brake system, it’s important to be proactive with maintenance. Your car’s manufacturer should have a recommended brake maintenance schedule. It may even come with a dashboard warning signal, letting you know it’s time for brake servicing. A good rule of thumb is:

Check your brake pads at 12,000 miles
Replace brake fluid at 25,000 miles

These estimates depend both on what car you drive as well as your driving style. By letting experts look at your system, they can help you make an informed decision to keep you safe no matter what the weather is like outside.

What does brake system maintenance mean?

Check your brake pads and rotors

The brake pads and rotors are the two main parts of your braking system. They are also the two main points of contact between your braking system and your tires. Because of their action during braking and stopping, they will deteriorate faster than other parts of your brake system.

When you press down on the brake pedal, it’s connected mechanically to a metal rod that feeds into a device called the master cylinder. A master cylinder is filled with brake fluid, or hydraulic fluid. The master cylinder and your car’s calipers are connected by brake lines. This is how the brake fluid flows through your brake system.

Pressing down on the brake pedal starts the braking process. The metal rod acts as a piston inside the master cylinder, compressing brake fluid to build up pressure inside the braking system. This pressure is transferred into the brake lines, forcing the brakes to move into action.

Behind each wheel is a caliper. Think of it as a big clamp that pushes the brake pads against the rotor, causing friction as it slows down your car. Your brake pads are under a lot of pressure as they slow and stop your vehicle over and over again each time you drive. Eventually, that process wears down. If you notice your pedal moves closer to the floor as you apply pressure, or smell a burning odor, it’s time to check your brakes.

Flush your brake fluid

Every time you press your brake pedal down, brake fluid is released and transferred from the master cylinder to the brake lines, into the calipers, and finally to the brake pads and rotors. Without brake fluid, this process wouldn’t work the way it does.

However, because brake fluid is an integral part of the braking process, it’s important for it to be in good working condition. Over time, it can start to break down. It can attract moisture, which is destructive to your braking system. It can cause corrosion to all metal components, as well as reduce how well the brakes work.

A brake flush is a process of removing brake fluid from the vehicle and replacing it with clean fluid. This removes all of the old fluid and adds new in its place. This will improve the performance of your car, as new fluid will come with a chemical structure that improves the way your braking system will work.

Bleed the brakes

While flushing the brake fluid through the brake line will add new fluid to your car, you should also bleed the brake lines to remove excess air. Over time, small amounts of air can be trapped, causing brakes to feel spongy when pressure is applied to the brake pedal.

As brake pads wear down, their composition can allow small amounts of air inside the braking system. It’s also possible for the brake lines to let in air. If you are an aggressive driver always slamming on the brakes, this can lead to air penetrating the brake lines.

Bleeding the brakes is the process of removing air from the brake line. This ensures the brakes are in good working condition and will work every time you press down on the brake pedal.

Upgrade as necessary

Over time, your brake system will continue to wear. Likewise, technology continues to increase the quality of brake parts, improving both performance and safety factors. This is a constant give and take process, one that should be adhered to on a regular schedule.

When you take the “wait and see” approach, you’re more likely to face expensive repair bills, have your car break down when you least expect it, and put you at more risk for accidents. Scheduling is the key to ensuring your vehicle always runs at its very best.

Become a better driver

One of the best ways to ensure your braking system is always in good condition is to pay more attention to how you drive. Brakes tend to fail more when you exceed what your vehicle is capable of. Things like:

Carrying large or heavy loads
Heavy braking
Aggressive driving
Driving in poor weather

Any of these can degrade your brakes to the point of having them fail on you when you least expect it. And that puts you and those around you at greater risk.

Your brakes are your safety net on the road. When in doubt, have them checked. It’s the best way to keep them in good working condition all year long.

How Often Should Your Brakes Be Replaced?

December 21, 2019 by admin

Your vehicle’s entire brake system will wear out over time. That includes brake pads, brake rotors, and brake calipers. It also depends on your driving patterns.

Every part of your brake system will have to be replaced at some point. The key is in doing so before it puts you in danger.

Understanding brake wear

Stop to think for a moment how many times your brakes are used in any given year. According to one study, the average driver uses their brakes around 75,000 times in a year! That’s a lot of braking.

Vehicular accidents occur for a variety of reasons. Brake failure is cause for only about 5 percent of total accidents per year. But considering there were 6.5 million police-reported motor vehicle crashes, that still equates to around 325,000 accidents due to problems with the braking system.

All parts of the braking system wear out over time, but brake wear depends on a variety of factors, including:

Brake pad hardness – brake pads come in several varieties made up of several different compounds. They are created and installed, depending on a car’s needs. For most urban driving, brake pads are made from a softer compound that does well driving around town, but does begin to break down in more performance-like settings. If you go with performance brake pads, the material is harder and made to last longer, but they don’t perform as well under most urban driving conditions.

Materials – because brake pads are made up of different compounds, they wear differently over time. The same applies to the brake rotor. Carbon-ceramic brakes, for example, will last longer than a standard metal brake, but they need to be warmer to be more effective. That can be a problem here in Colorado. Steel or metal brakes are better for our Front Range driving conditions, and handle well throughout the year.

Driving conditions – even here in the Denver metro area, we all drive differently. Some people rarely drive more than a ten mile radius, staying close to home almost all the time for work and play. Others travel up into the mountains many weekends a year. Some people are defensive drivers, braking abruptly throughout their commutes, while others prefer smooth, gradual braking and allow plenty of room between them and the car in front of them. Some spend their days driving from stoplight to stoplight, while others drive mostly on the highway. All of this impacts how your brakes wear and how long they will last.

How do you know when to replace your brakes?

Brakes aren’t something you’ll regularly replace like motor oil or even your tires. The best way rule of thumb is to pay attention to your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines. Most mechanics will tell you that brake pads, in general, will last around 50,000 miles. Of course, all of the wearability factors from above go into that. It’s not unusual for cars to come in and need a brake job at 25,000, while others can push the envelope and wait until closer to 75,000 miles. It depends on a variety of things.

Luckily, it’s not all based on mileage. There isn’t a magical number in which you have to show up and have your brakes replaced. You can watch for warning signs.

Brake pad thickness – brake pad thickness will wear down over time. Inspect them regularly. If you have your tires rotated (and you should), or go in for an oil change, the mechanic can take a look and tell you the condition of your brake pads.

Squealing noise – you can’t miss the sound of a brake pad that’s reaching end of life. It makes a metallic squealing noise to let you know the end is near. Brake pads have small metal pieces built into the bottom of the brake pad for that very reason. When those surface, it’s basically metal against metal, grinding away to tell you something is wrong.

Pulling and vibration – does it feel like your car pulls to one side while braking? Do you feel a vibration when you step on the brake pedal? All can be feedback from your braking system. In some cases, it might be the rotors are warped. It can also be a vehicle that’s out of alignment. When you feel either of these, your safest bet is to have a mechanic check out your brake system and fix the problem.

Whenever your brakes are worn out or lose performance, it’s time to replace them. Good, functional brakes are the key to keeping you and your family safe.

What to do when brake failure happens

While it’s important to keep your brakes in good working condition, occasionally brakes fail. As a driver, you should understand what to do if that happens.

Your first step is to determine if you have standard brakes or antilock brakes. The easiest way to tell is to watch your dashboard when you start the car. An ABS will light up if you have antilock brakes.

If standard brakes go out, you’ll come to a stop doing three things.

First, downshift to a lower gear. Next, pump the brakes fast and hard to create a buildup of brake fluid. If you haven’t noticed a change after four or five pumps, locate the parking brake and pull up. Do it gradually and be prepared for the car to skid.

If you still can’t stop the car, put the car into a low gear and steer it towards safety. It will eventually roll to a stop. Of course, living here in the Rocky Mountains, that can also be a problem coming down large hills. In that case, if you’re traveling at highway speeds, you might have to use the guard rail as a buffer. Steer so you scrape gently against it to slow your speed. Honk and flash your lights to alert other drivers to your problem.

If you have antilock brakes, you’ll push the pedal all the way to the floor and allow the ABS to do the pulsing for you. If none of it works, you’ll perform the same steps as above.

This doesn’t happen that often, but it’s still a good idea to practice skid situations in a safe environment. Use your parking brake to get a good feel for how your car handles in a variety of situations.

When was the last time your brakes were replaced?

Yes, Your Brake Fluid Will Wear Down

December 14, 2019 by admin

Brake fluid is also known as hydraulic fluid. It is responsible for moving the different components of your car’s braking system.

Brake fluid operates under high temperatures and high pressure. Without brake fluid, your car wouldn’t slow down or come to a stop when you press down on the brake pedal.

What does brake fluid do?

Brake fluid is a lubricant and anti-corrosion fluid that ensures your brake system works optimally all the time. It’s non-compressible, which means it’s always in the brake line, ready to work and deliver force every time you push on the brake pedal. The hydraulic brake system works like this:

The brake pedal is pressed
The pedal pushes down a piston inside the brake caliper
This process increases pressure inside the brake lines, pushing brake fluid throughout the system
Pressure cause brake rotors to squeeze the brake pads into action
Brake pads make contact with the wheels, slowing the vehicle down
You stay safe by being able to control your vehicle, all by touching your foot to the brake pedal

That’s a lot of responsibility for one system! And it hopefully shows you just how important brake fluid is. It’s an essential component to ensure your vehicle operates.

What are the most common brake fluid problems?

Brake fluid isn’t like motor oil or windshield washer fluid. You don’t drive in and have it changed out on a regular basis. Still, brake fluid can develop problems over time.

The most common has been when moisture seeps into the brake fluid. However, with increased technology comes better construction. If you have an older car – 20 years or older – moisture in brake fluid was a problem. But with today’s components, seals are tighter than ever, which has eliminated most of the moisture intrusion issues.

Brake fluid usually contains up to 5 percent of additives. These are corrosion inhibitors added to prevent corrosion within the brake system. Brake fluid itself won’t corrode. What happens instead is when brake fluid no longer has anti-corrosive qualities, the internal brake hydraulic components may not get what they need. This is when breakdown occurs.

Brake fluid corrosion can occur:

With excessive heating or overheating through usage of a car’s brakes
By overusing the brake system with heavy loads or weight that exceeds recommendations
With excessive stop and go driving, pouncing on the brakes
By adding low-quality brake fluid
Through temperature extremes

What happens if brake fluid is low?

Different car manufacturers have different requirements when it comes to filling up your brake fluid reservoir. Check with your owner’s manual to determine how frequently to change out your brake fluid.

In theory, it can be a DIY project. But you have to understand how the basic brake system works, and have specific information about how your car works. Pay attention to the brake bleeding procedure; it needs to be performed in the right manner to keep you safe.

Are there different types of brake fluid?

In general, brake fluid isn’t that fancy. But different cars experience different driving conditions, so there are several different kinds of brake fluids to meet all needs.

DOT 3 has a glycol-ether base. It is designed for regular vehicles with average driving patterns, such as commuting.

DOT 4 is similar to DOT 3, only with more additives to increase boiling points. You’ll find DOT 4 increases performance, or move to Super DOT 4 for even better performance. This fluid is often used for racing or performance vehicles that can greatly exceed normal speed limits.

DOT 5 is not compatible with any other brake fluid types. It’s a rust preventer, and unlike other brake fluids, it won’t harm paint if spilled. It’s also costly. Unless your vehicle was specifically designed with DOT 5, this isn’t an option for most cars.

DOT 5.1 is similar to DOT 3 and DOT 4 in composition, but acts more like DOT 5 on the road. It has a lower viscosity, which is necessary for some vehicles.

In technical terms, DOT 3, DOT 4, and DOT 5.1 are similar. In a pinch, you can substitute one for another. But you shouldn’t drive without the proper brake fluid for very long. FLush the entire system and add in fresh, clean brake fluid as recommended by your car’s manufacturer for best results.

DOT 5 cannot be substituted at any time. It could damage your brake system.

What is bleeding the brakes?

If you read anything about your brake system or adding brake fluid to your car, you’ve probably noticed talk about bleeding the brakes.

Bleeding the brakes is the process of pushing new brake fluid through the brake lines and removing the old. As brake fluid wears, it loses additives and has an increase in gas bubbles within the line. By draining the old fluid out, you ensure what’s left is high quality, fresh brake fluid ready to do its job.

This process requires a few tools. You’ll need a wrench to open up the valves located by each brake caliper. You’ll also need a catch container to hold the old brake fluid. You’ll also need a way to operate the brake pedal to push the new brake fluid through the system.

This process takes skill; don’t run the brake reservoir dry or open the valves too far. This can allow more bubbles into the system, which can cause serious safety issues as you drive. A professional will ensure the job is done right the first time.

What about a brake fluid flush?

The other term you’re likely to hear is brake fluid flush. The name makes it sound like the system is being flushed with cleaner to remove old brake fluid before new is installed. In reality, a brake fluid flush and bleeding the brakes are identical. It’s when new brake fluid is forced into the system, pushing the old fluid and all of its potential issues away. That’s it.

How long has it been since your brake fluid was changed?

Now that you know the importance of brake fluid to your car’s brake system, the next question is: when was the last time you had your brake fluid changed?

Your brakes are one of the most important systems to keep you safe as you drive each day. If you’ve noticed a change in the way your brakes work, it’s time to have them checked. We can help. Make an appointment, and one of our professional mechanics will evaluate your systems and make suggestions for the best way to proceed. We’ll get you back on the road in no time.

Brake Job Checklist – This Is What Your Auto Mechanic Will Do

December 5, 2019 by admin

What’s involved in a brake job? Do mechanics have a brake job checklist they work through to ensure every part of your braking system is working the way it should?

While very few of us think much about the braking system or how it works on our vehicles, there’s no denying its importance. Imagine sailing down the mountain after a day of skiing, and your brakes won’t work. That’s a pretty scary thought.

Luckily, that rarely happens. And if your car is well maintained, those chances reduce even more.

Is a brake job do-it-yourself or should you hire a mechanic?

If you’ve ever pushed the brake pedal to the floor and had a hard time engaging the brake system, you know how important your car’s brakes are.

If you’ve ever pressed down on the brake pedal on ice and slid as if your brake system wasn’t there, you know how important your brakes really are.

If your brakes don’t work, you put you and your vehicle’s occupants at risk. The good news is your car gives you warning signs long before the brakes fail.

Brake light on – today’s modern vehicles have all kinds of sensors to tell you when things need servicing. These lights are there for a reason; don’t ignore them. When you see the brake light turn on, get it serviced as soon as possible to determine what the problem is.

Noises – because your brake system is one of the most important systems, engineers have built in sounds to capture attention long before you will have trouble. If you start hearing a high-pitched noise when you apply the brake pedal, it’s warning you your brake pads are wearing thin. They are made of steel so when they come in contact with the rotors, this sound begins.

Vibration – you might also start to feel vibrations as you apply the brakes. It shakes the steering wheel and pulls you to one side or the other. If brake rotors wear unevenly, they give the appearance of wobbling as you attempt to slow down. The rotors should be even to provide a smooth stopping experience.

Fluid leaks – when you tap on the brake pedal, brake fluid is pushed through the system creating hydraulic pressure. If there is a leak in the system, there may not be enough pressure for the brake system to complete the action. If you experience a soft brake pedal, where the pedal moves all the way to the floor before it catches resistance – there is most likely a leak somewhere in the system.

Burning smell – if you smell a strong chemical odor after braking hard or using the brakes repeatedly driving down steep inclines, it could be a sign of overheated brakes. Get to a safe place and allow your brakes to cool. Check your parking brake to ensure it’s fully released and not inhibiting your car from moving. Ensure there isn’t any smoke coming from the wheel, which could be a sign of a stuck caliper. When in doubt, call for help.

Because your braking system is one of the most important parts of your automobile, error on the side of caution. When in doubt, have your brakes checked. If you have experience working with cars, you can perform the check yourself. If not, it’s best left to the professionals.

What’s included on a brake job checklist?

When you bring your car into a reputable mechanic for a complete brake job, they will move through the vehicle’s entire braking system checking off steps as they go. They will check and do the following:

Test drive the car
Inspect the tires
Check entire suspension system
Look for leaking, cracked, or damaged hoses
Replace leaking or damaged steel lines
Rebuild or replace leaking or damaged calipers
Look for leaks or broken pistons or guide pins and replace the caliper
Check to master cylinder for leaks
Test the brake pedal
Inspect rotors and drums for damage
Change out the brake pads or shoes
Service wheel bearings
Lubricate places like caliper slides and shoe pads
Check brake fluid and flush if necessary
Adjust the parking brake
Replace faulty sensors

There’s a lot that goes into using a brake job checklist. Safety matters, so all good mechanics will use this step by step guide to ensure everything is working properly to keep you and your vehicle’s occupants safe.

Brake pad wear

When many people refer to having a brake job, what they are actually referring to is replacing their brake pads. Brake pads wear every time you apply the brake pedal. If you drive mostly in the city, they are being used dozens – hundreds of times per day as you stop and go with the flow of the traffic.

But don’t think they get a break just because you hit the highway. If you are towing a trailer or have heavy loads, those brake pads work hard no matter how often you apply the brakes. Mountain driving adds in its own special circumstances, often requiring constant pressure as you move up and down the hills.

While a brake system is designed to apply wear evenly on the brake pads, it doesn’t always happen as intended. If you notice abnormal brake wear patterns, that can tell you things too.

Tapered wear – worn caliper hardware

Only one pad worn – caliper or piston hanging up

Grooved surfaces – problems with the rotors

Chipped surfaces – excessive heat buildup

Step in lining – the pads don’t line up correctly – installed incorrectly

If you notice any of these on your brake pads, your best course of action is to schedule an appointment right away.

Braking system care

One of the most effective ways to ensure your car’s performance and safety every day of the year is to properly maintain your brakes. There are a lot of ways you can ensure your car is operating the way it should. Brake deterioration is often caused by:

Carrying too much weight – only carry what is needed within your vehicle.
Heavy braking – turn aggressive driving into a more passive driving routine. Every time you jump on the brakes because you’re traveling too close to the vehicle in front of you, you add wear to your braking system.
Wet weather – be especially mindful of your brakes when road conditions change because of rain, snow, or ice. Give yourself plenty of room to brake, adding extra distance between you and other vehicles to ensure your safety.

Your brakes are your safety net for the road. Without them, you could put you, your vehicle, and your family in precarious situations. If you think you have a problem with your brakes, don’t delay. Schedule a visit with one of our mechanics, where we’ll run through our brake job checklist and ensure every aspect of your braking system is working the way it should.

How Tires Affect Your Brake System

November 29, 2019 by admin

As you drive around the city, you have a lot on your mind. Your to-do list is in hand – stop by the dry cleaners, pick up groceries, grab a coffee to go. How much can you do between meetings, or before you have to pick the kids up from school? Your daily list goes on and on.

You probably don’t think much about your car. Yet eventually, your car won’t act “normal.” Something will seem a bit off. It’ll make a strange noise. It won’t handle the way it has in the past.

For some issues, it’s not a big deal. You can drive for a while with only minor inconvenience. But what about if you notice your car isn’t stopping like it once did?

Logically, if you want to give your car better braking ability, you assume it means installing new brakes. Your brake system is responsible for turning kinetic energy from your moving car into heat. If the brakes aren’t operating the way they should, that process won’t work the way it’s supposed to.

Can tires affect brakes?

But it’s more than the brake system that gives your car the ability to stop. Tires play their part too. The brakes may be the one part that give your car control and help you slow down, but without the tires, you wouldn’t have the quickness and stability that you do.

All of today’s passenger cars have anti-lock braking systems, also known as ABS. ABS prevents your wheels from locking up when you hard brake. This gives you control in emergency situations. Otherwise, when you pounce on the brakes and your front wheels lock up, you’d lose the ability to steer where you want to go.

If you’ve ever pressed down on your brake pedal with urgency, you’ll hear the ABS pump working. You’ll feel the ABS vibrating through the brake pedal as the system works to create the right amount of pressure to each wheel.

ABS tells the overall braking system that the wheel has stopped rotating, but the tire can’t keep up with the force. Your braking system is perfectly happy to keep applying pressure to stop the rotation of the wheel. But if your tires are capable of withstanding the pressure, more pressure serves no purpose. Your tires will be the problem in the process.

So, tires control braking instead of the brake system?

No, not exactly. The two go hand in hand. Your brakes would continue to work with or without tires in place. It’s the safety and ride that are impacted by tires. While the wheels, calipers, rotors, and brake pads all play their part in how your vehicle stops, tire grip also plays a role. No matter how good of a braking system you install in your car, the stopping power will only be as good as how the tires connect to the road.

Can bald tires affect braking?

One of the most dangerous things you can do is to drive on bald tires. According to the Crash causation Survey of the NHTSA, 9 percent of all crashes were based on tire-related issues. While bald tires aren’t the only thing attributed to increased risk factors, it is a significant characteristic that can increase the likelihood of an accident, especially when you add in road conditions commonplace across the Front Range.

It’s the tires that keep you on the road. The amount of tread left on the tires plays an integral part in how well it grips the road. Even in the best of circumstances, the available traction is what keeps your car safe as pick up speed or stop. As conditions change, your risk factors quickly escalate.

Bald tires on dry roads are at an increased risk of a blowout. As the tread wears away, the tire’s structure also becomes thinner and more at risk. It makes it easier to puncture, and if the tire is filled with too much air, it’s at an increased risk for failure as you pick up speed.

When you add in wet road conditions, you also increase the risk of hydroplaning. The tread pattern in a tire helps channel away water. As the tread wears down, it can no longer move water away from the tire, creating tension between the road and the tire. Your stopping distance expands exponentially, as well as your chances of skidding out of control.

Now let’s add in snow and icy conditions, something that’s commonplace here in Denver. Without proper tread, you are essentially at the mercy of the icy road. You’ll slide along on the surface no matter what condition your brakes are in.

Of course, it’s not just ice and snow that can impact your car. The heat of the summer has its problems too. A tire’s tread actually works to prevent massive heat buildup as you move down the street. As temperatures climb towards triple digits in the summer, balding tires have no way to dissipate the heat of the air flow, cooling your tires. When tires overheat, they are at increased risk for blowouts.

Will my car ride better with new tires?

The obvious answer is: yes. When you install new tires onto your vehicle, you’ll have better performance from the moment you take it out onto the street. They’ll have more tread, more grip, and provide you with a smoother ride.

Of course, it ultimately depends on the problem you were trying to correct.

Tires affect the braking system, but the two are separate parts to your car. You can’t stop without quality tires in place. You can’t stop unless your braking system is working the way it should. The two have equal bearing on the safety and handling of your car.

If your vehicle isn’t stopping the way it should and you aren’t sure where the problem lies, the best place to start is with an inspection. We can look over your entire system and determine what’s preventing you from driving as your car is intended to perform. Together we can make your car a safer, more reliable tool to help you get through your busy days.