Brake Repair

Brake Check Checklist To Ensure Your Passengers Safety

April 25, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

When it comes to vehicle safety, there are many tasks you shouldn’t ignore. Motor oil is important; experts suggest replacing it about every 3,000 miles. If your tires wear out, not only will they provide a very bumpy ride, but they may also suffer a blowout, putting you and your passengers at risk.

But few would argue at the top of the safety list is your car braking system. The head of the Car Care Council said it best when he stated, “If brake service is neglected, you’re gambling with your safety, and the safety of your passengers and other drivers.”

For all those reasons and more, it’s important to keep a brake check checklist handy, and refer to it from time to time to ensure your car’s braking system is operating the way it should. It’s the best way to keep you and those around you safe and secure.

A good brake check inspection will allow you to recognize when things go wrong, as well as allow you to take action before bigger problems arise. If you have an older car and you haven’t paid much attention to the brakes lately, do this now.

Step 1: Schedule a brake inspection

A car’s brake system is made up of a variety of different components.

The brake master cylinder pushes hydraulic fluid into the brake lines. Most master cylinders have two components for safety reasons, one section to control the front brakes, the other for the rear brake. It works by controlling the amount of hydraulic fluid released in order to maintain the pressure used to slow down the vehicle.

The brake rotor (or brake drum on older cars) spins while the car is operating. The brake pad and caliper push against the brake rotor to cause friction necessary to slow down and stop the vehicle.

In a disc brake system, the brake pad and caliper are used to control the speed by pressing up against a spinning brake disc. Brake calipers provide a clamping force that pushes the brake pad against the rotor.

The alternative to this is a brake shoe that is used for slowing and stopping drum brakes. The brake shoe rubs against the interior of the drum brake to control speed.

The brake pedal is the connector to give you control of how much pressure is applied within the braking system.

Many vehicles today are equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Each wheel has a sensor that detects how fast each wheel is spinning. If your wheels lock and one or more wheel spins at different speeds, the ABS module turns on to help you safely control and stop your car. This is run by an ABS module that programs the speeds and keeps the system working.
Brakes lines move brake fluid throughout the system to allow ease when you tap on the brakes.

While these are the main components of the braking system, there are many more parts that go into making up each individual component. If any of these parts wear down, break, or leak, it can put your braking system in jeopardy.

When you schedule a brake inspection, a mechanic will look at the entire braking system thoroughly. They move through the entire process, ensuring parts are in good condition, fluid is at the right levels, and every piece is working as it should. If you’re heading out on a road trip, this is an important step before you leave to give you added insurance your car is safe for the road.

Step 2: Never ignore warning signs

As a part of your brake check checklist, you should become aware of how your vehicle runs when it’s working at its best. How does it act? How does it sound?

Being aware of what your car sounds like in good working condition will help you pick up on the signs when something goes bad.

Do you hear a squealing, squeaking, or grinding noise? The brake pads are built with an internal indicator to create sound when they reach the end of their lifespan. They provide you with plenty of warnings to schedule an appointment and get your car in for servicing. A grinding noise might also mean dirt or debris has made its way into the brake line, and is causing havoc somewhere within the system. Bringing it in for servicing will allow a mechanic to thoroughly inspect the brakes and make corrections as needed.

Do you feel a vibration in the steering wheel? It could be uneven rotors. As the brake pads apply pressure to each of the four rotors, unevenness will send shockwaves through the system, and present itself as wobbling or a vibration.

Do you notice a spongy or soft brake? Over time, it can take more pressure applied to the brake pedal to slow and stop your vehicle. This could be a leak in the brake lines, or a problem with the master cylinder. This is also a sign you should schedule servicing as quickly as possible.

Do you smell something burning? If your brakes overheat as you use them, they have a sharp chemical smell you can’t miss. If your brakes get too hot, it can cause brake failure, meaning you’ll be driving without braking assistance. It’s important to pull over to safety immediately, and get your brake system checked out.

Step 3: Use your brakes correctly

This sounds almost obvious, but some drivers consistently put too much pressure on their vehicle’s braking system.

Speed is the enemy. If you drive too fast, follow too closely, and often find yourself slamming on the brakes, you’re putting too much pressure on the brake system. You’ll replace brake pads and other parts more frequently than if you slow down and drive less aggressively.

Coast when you can. Don’t hurry up just to stop again. And avoid being a two-footed driver. Having constant pressure on the brake pedal means your brake pads wear out that much faster.

If the brake warning light illuminates, don’t ignore it. Schedule your appointment with a mechanic today.

Step 4: Find a mechanic you can trust

While a trip to the service station often ends with you spending money on car repair, if you get to know your local mechanic, you can work in partnership to keep your vehicle safe.

If you have any questions about how to extend the life of your brake system, and how to get the most out of the parts you install, we’re here to provide the answers. Just call.

When Should You Use Your Parking Brake

April 10, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

Your car’s braking system is one of the most essential mechanisms built in for safety. Imagine driving down the mountain after a day of skiing without it. Even coming to a stop for a stoplight would be a harrowing experience if something were to go wrong.

While your front and rear brakes make up the most important part of the braking system, there’s a third brake that doesn’t get as much attention yet is equally important: the parking brake. The parking brake is connected to the rear brake system, and is used mainly as a failsafe if something were to happen to your brakes during your normal drive.

The parking brake is a secondary brake system that is designed to be independent of the front and rear brakes. This is your safety feature. You’ll find the control for your parking brake in one of four places:

Center console – it’s a lever located between the two front seats
Foot pedal – it’s a pedal located on the floor on the far left of all other pedals
Stick – in older vehicles, you may find the emergency parking brake lever located on the instrument panel
Push button – on newer vehicles, a push button exists on the console with other components

The mechanism is available for easy access.

If you drive a manual transmission, you may be used to using a parking brake to keep your car from rolling. But that doesn’t make a parking brake on an automatic transmission any less important. In truth, everyone should be familiar with the uses of a parking brake, and utilize it to make your driving experience safer.

How a parking brake works

Your vehicle’s brakes are designed to bring your car to a stop. The more pressure you apply to the brake pedal, the more tension is transferred from the brake pad to the wheel, slowing your car until it eventually stops.

When you engage the parking brake, discs inside your rear wheel squeeze up against the inner part of the wheel in much the same way. This action slows the wheel, eventually stopping it and keeping it from rolling away.

While parking brakes work in a slightly different manner from vehicle to vehicle, to engage the parking brake, fully engage the rear brake system by pressing down on the brake pedal. Only then should you pull the lever or press the button for the parking brake system. Once the parking brake is in place, shift your car into park. Then release the brake pedal. This allows the hydraulic system to activate and do its work without putting added stress on the transmission.

Why your vehicle has a parking brake

In everyday situations, you might be tempted to only utilize your vehicle’s braking system. When you place your vehicle in park, a parking pawl is pushed into one of the grooves of the transmission gear to keep it from moving. A parking pawl is nothing more than a hammer-shaped pin that drops into place. While it might be enough force in everyday situations, it can weaken over time, especially if you’re on steep inclines or hills. One small pin stopping a several ton vehicle will only work for so long.

If you don’t use your parking brake regularly, this parking pawl weakens over time. That can impact your transmission system, or cause accidents as your vehicle rolls away. That can lead to expensive repairs.

Get in the practice of using your parking brake

Even if you infrequently drive, even if you park in relatively flat areas across the Front Range, your vehicle can still be at risk. If you’re putting your car in park, it’s a good idea to engage the parking brake too.

We advise using a parking brake no matter where you park your vehicle, but especially as your risk level increases.

Are you parallel parking on a hill? Engage your parking brake.

Are you filling up your vehicle at a gas station? Engage your parking brake.

Will you be leaving your car in a parking garage for hours at a time while you head into the office? Engage your parking brake.

It’s better to be safe than sorry. And a parking brake gives you added insurance to ensure your vehicle stays safe.

In many cases, people refer to a parking brake as an emergency brake. That title may be a bit misleading, making you think you only need it in emergency situations. The parking brake not only keeps your vehicle from moving, but it also saves your transmission from wear and tear. And that can save on repair bills down the road.

Using a parking brake in an emergency

Your car’s braking system is a complex mechanical system. Over time, it can fail, and that could be catastrophic depending on where it happens. That’s where the emergency brake comes into play. If you’ve ever referred to the parking brake as an emergency brake, this is why.

In the case of brake failure, you have seconds to react. A natural reaction is to stomp on the parking brake pedal, or pull up on the parking brake lever as hard as possible. Resist that urge. That will send your car into a tailspin, and possibly put you in even more danger.

Instead, slowly engage the emergency brake as your car comes to a stop. The parking brake is designed to hold your car in place, not stop it. As it engages, it slows your vehicle down until the point you can gain control.

Get a full brake inspection

If the concept of using your parking brake regularly is still new to you, put it into practice today. It can help your vehicle have a longer lifespan, as well as keep it safer over time.

Have a question about how well your brakes work? It’s time for a complete brake inspection. It’s the easiest way to determine how safe your entire braking system really is. By bringing it in, we can tell you how much wear is left on your brake pads, and give you tips on better driving and maintenance. If you pinpoint issues early, you’ll stay safer in the long run.

When was the last time you had a full brake inspection?

Is It Time To Replace The Brake Fluid?

March 28, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

As drivers, we put a lot of trust in our brakes. We assume they’ll work in every road condition. We trust in their abilities as we pull up to a stoplight, and think nothing about the process as we slow down for traffic.

But when you experience brake failure, fear runs through your veins. You apply pressure to the brake pedal and nothing is there. Ever had that happen when you hit a patch of ice?

As Coloradoans, we’ve learned to pay attention to driving conditions, especially in the winter. We slow down on icy roads, and become more cautious as the snowpack builds.

What about brake failure? Under the best of conditions, your brakes will only last so long. Over time, parts wear down, fluids leak, and defects become more prominent, until you reach a point where they aren’t performing the job as best as they can.

That’s when you face more risk, and potential failure.

What is brake fluid?

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid. Hydraulic fluids are designed to provide energy transmission, which permits work and motion throughout the system. Hydraulic fluid is responsible for lubrication as well as heat transfer, and will prevent contaminants from entering inside the system.

Today’s modern vehicles wouldn’t work without the use of hydraulic fluids. In the brake system, it transfers force into the system, and amplifies the braking force.

Brake fluid operates under high temperatures and high pressure. It’s what gives you ease when you press down on your brake pedal, yet adds power to the process and brings your vehicle to a stop. That makes brake fluid one of the most important fluids you’ll find inside your vehicle. Without the right amount, the right kinds, and in the right condition, your vehicle would cease to run.

How do you know if your brake fluid isn’t operating well?

Like every system inside your vehicle, the brake system is designed with safeguards to warn you of potential problems. Pay attention to these signs. They will tell you when it’s time to replace your brake fluid.

ABS icon lights up

Luckily, today’s vehicles come with a computerized system that senses when changes occur within. When a problem is detected, the sensor triggers a light to the icons on your dashboard.

ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. This light is designed to trigger when brake fluid is low or contaminated. When you see it, it’s a sign you need to bring your vehicle in for an inspection, and have a mechanic either top off your brake fluid, or replace it altogether.

Brake pedal operation

The brake system is designed to slow down and come to a complete stop with little pressure from you. As you tap the brake pedal, the action takes place quickly as hydraulic fluid transfers and adds power to the system.

When you press down and notice the action takes more effort, it’s a clear indication the brake fluid isn’t fully operational. It may be contaminated. It may be leaking somewhere in the system. That loss means you need to apply more pressure to get the job done.

If you notice a softer touch, you push down with little action at all, it’s essential to bring your car to a mechanic as soon as possible. This is a clear indication of a leak within the system.

Noises

When systems aren’t fully operational, you’ll find they make strange noises. They do so because parts don’t operate correctly, and action starts to shut down.

If contaminants are in the system, they can do a lot of damage to the system. Clogged lines, frozen caliper pistons, leaks in the seals, and master cylinder failure all create unique noises as they degrade due to lack of lubrication.

If your brakes make any noise at all, don’t take chances. Schedule an inspection as soon as possible to ensure they remain operational.

Problems with the brake pads

When was the last time you replaced your brake pads? Have you checked them and discovered they still have wear left on them, but your car is still making noises when you apply the brake pedal? It might be the brake fluid instead.

If the brake fluid is low, or if it’s contaminated with dirt and debris, it can impact the connection the brake pads make with the wheel, causing a squealing, grinding, or squeaking noise.

A burning smell

Have you ever slammed on the brakes and noticed a burning smell? Or if you ride your brakes coming down the mountain, is a chemical odor noticeable? It’s associated with hard braking, and is a sign of overheating with the brake system.

When you notice this, pull over immediately to allow your brakes to cool. If they continue operating at high temperature levels, you risk overheating the brake fluid. That’s one of the most common reasons for brake failure.

If you smell anything or see smoke, it’s a sign you might need new brake fluid. And there’s a potential for other damage in the braking system too.

How long does brake fluid last in a car?

When is the last time you read your owner’s manual? It’s not something most of us read on a regular basis. Yet it gives you guidelines for how best to operate your vehicle, including when to change your brake fluid.

There is no set time to change brake fluid. It doesn’t operate in the same manner as motor oil. It’s based on how the car was manufactured, as well as how you operate your vehicle.

A good rule of thumb is to check it regularly, even have it checked at the time you’re having your motor oil replaced. It often can last at least four to five years, or even longer. There is a benefit to using a local mechanic who gets to know you and your car well. You can establish a maintenance routine that both you and your car depend on to keep your vehicle in good operating condition.

When was the last time you had your brake fluid checked, topped off, or replaced?

Why Your Pickup Truck Should Have Good Brakes

January 14, 2021 by Denver Express Car Care

One of the most essential systems built into any vehicle is the braking system. But for a pickup truck, good brakes are critical.

Imagine flying down the mountain after a weekend of camping, only to find your brakes don’t work. That can be extra scary if your boat or camper is attached and trailing behind you.

Or maybe your sailing down the highway, a bed filled with building materials for your next project. All that extra weight adds strain to your braking system, and you discover they aren’t working quite the way you anticipated when traffic comes to a sudden halt. That can put you in a very messy and dangerous situation.

Pickup trucks that tow need better brakes

That might not come as a surprise, but let’s talk about why pickup trucks that tow need a different braking system.

Any time you add weight onto a vehicle, it changes the operating conditions of the vehicle itself. That large load you pile into the bed, the boat you attach to the back end, or even just adding a larger tire/wheel combination will change the vehicle’s dynamics. Because the pickup truck no longer operates as it was designed, it may also change the functionality of the braking system. When that happens, it’s a good idea to have the entire braking system evaluated to determine if it’s reacting well to the conditions it’s put under on a daily basis.

One of our mechanics can help you select brakes for:

Better stopping power
Noise reduction
Lower brake dust residue
Reduce vibration
A faster break-in time frame
Longer life overall

The other reason brakes are important

A small pickup will have gross weight of anywhere from 5,000 to 7,000 pounds. If you have a heavy duty pickup, gross weight can move up to 7,000 to 12,000 pounds. While manufacturer specs are needed to properly define actual weight, in any case you move a lot of mass around every time you sit behind the wheel.

Compare that to the average sedan on the road today, weighing in at 3,350 pounds, or the average SUV that weighs 4,800 pounds.

That makes the braking system on any pickup truck, especially if they are towing and adding weight to their load, even more important. You’re putting more than the risk of your passengers and load at risk every time you drive.

Maintain your pickup truck brakes properly

Whether your pickup truck uses disc pads at every wheel, or uses drum shoes in the rear, ensure they are working well by scheduling regular inspection and replacement. Depending on how you use your vehicle, your brakes may wear faster and not have as long a useful life as listed on the brake’s guidelines. Unlike motor oil, there isn’t a specific service guideline you should follow.

Brake pads come with wear indicators. They are designed to provide safety tactics built into the pads themselves. Just like on your family car, as the brake pad wears, it will reach the indicator, touch the rotor, and squeal when enough material has worn away.

Some brake pads used on pickup trucks may also have a wear bar that allows you to visually see how much material has worn away. Check this periodically to ensure there is plenty of pad left for normal driving conditions.

Keep in mind that brake pads are only part of your braking system. The rotors themselves can eventually wear down and need to be replaced. This can be more difficult to see, which is why it’s important to schedule regular maintenance visits with your local mechanic.

Is it important to buy the best brakes on the market?

As consumers, we often learn the “good, better, best” approach to purchasing often means we choose the product that costs the most to get the best product. With your pickup truck brakes, that’s not always the case.

According to Consumer Reports, the average stopping distance for compact pickups is 136 feet going from 60 mph back down to zero. Full sized pickups take approximately 140 feet. Compare that sports cars that can stop on average at 120 feet, or even a small luxury car that will stop at 131 feet.

While these are averages, it still brings into question the importance of being able to stop your vehicle easily, to avoid tragic consequences when maneuvering in day to day traffic.

Cheap brakes can have a host of problems. Pull up Youtube and you can search and find all sorts of videos showing you the consequences of installing cheap brake pads. Budget brake pads can experience glue failure. The material can break down easily under stressful situations. The material can separate from the brake pad plate with high amounts of heat – something that can quickly happen if you’re towing a large load and sailing down a mountain pass.

That being said, you don’t necessarily have to go to the other extreme and search for the most expensive brake pad you can find. Instead, it’s best to stick with a brand name with a proven track record, and rely on regular inspections to ensure your brakes are working fine.

Is it time for brake replacement?

Consider what you do during the year. Do you use your pickup truck for work? Do you carry heavy loads? Do you use it regularly to haul boats, campers, and other recreational equipment on your weekend getaways? Do you put hundreds – or thousands – of miles on your truck each season?

Then think for a moment how you drive. Are you slow and careful at every turn? Would you describe your driving as aggressive?

If you push your brakes and use them regularly while driving, your brake pads will have a shorter lifespan.

On the other hand, if you apply the brake pedal gradually, leaving plenty of space around you in all driving conditions, your brakes may last the lifespan suggested by the manufacturer.

This can help you decide how often to bring your pickup truck in for an inspection.

It can also help us make better recommendations for keeping you safe.

Good brakes are vital for any vehicle, but especially a pickup truck. For the safety of your passengers and the vehicles around you, be sure to get your braking system checked regularly.

It May Be Time To Replace Your Master Cylinder

December 10, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

When you get in your car and head out for the day, you have a lot on your mind. You might be thinking about the meeting you’re attending, or what errands you need to run on your way home.

What we don’t think about is the trouble we might face a few miles down the road. We assume our cars will work, and will protect us in the event of something going wrong.

How about your braking system? Think it’s working okay on your vehicle? A study put out by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed that 22 percent of accidents were caused by brake-related issues. That means they didn’t function correctly, and were the major cause of why the accident occurred.

The braking system is one of the major systems of your vehicle. And at the heart of the braking system is the master cylinder, in charge of sending brake fluid down through the brake lines to the brake caliper. This allows the caliper to control the brake pads, squeezing against the rotors to slow your vehicle down, keeping it in control and safe as you move throughout your day.

Like every part of your braking system, the master cylinder will only last for so long. And when it does, it causes disruption in the system and puts your vehicle at risk.

Luckily, there are warning signs to watch for before your master cylinder goes bad.

What is a master cylinder?

Before we get into some of the potential problems with your master cylinder, let’s get a clearer understanding of its importance to the brake system.

The brake system moves into action as you step on the brake pedal. Through hydraulics, the force of the brake pedal moves pressurized brake fluid through the line, down into the caliper. The caliper then squeezes the brake pads at each wheel into the brake rotor, which in turn causes friction at the base. This action is what slows down the wheel rotation, bringing it eventually to a stop.

None of this would be possible without the master cylinder providing the brake fluid into the braking system. If something is wrong with the master cylinder, it shows up in the form of a braking system that doesn’t work as intended.

The brake pedal is connected to a pushrod. By applying pressure to the brake pedal, it pushes the pushrod deeper into the master cylinder. Inside are two pistons and spring, which move into action as the pushrod connects.

Inside is a reservoir of brake fluid, which floods the master cylinder during this process. The reservoir stays shut when in motion, but as the pushrod releases the ports to the reservoir, it causes the fluid to rush in.

This fluid follows the brake line until it eventually sets the calipers into motion. As you release the brake pedal, the springs pop back into place, and the braking system returns to its original position, waiting for your next movement.

Signs of problems with the master cylinder

Just by understanding how the braking system works should allow you to see where potential problems can begin. This also helps you keep a watchful eye on ways to prevent problems before they start.

Brake pedal feels spongy

This is one of the easiest symptoms to notice. As you drive your car, notice how things feel when everything is running well. Then do a quick assessment every time you slip behind the wheel. Do you see differences from the last time you drove? Stepping on the pedal should always be a responsive move. If it feels squishy, almost like stepping on a sponge, it could be a problem with the master cylinder. The brake pedal may also sink closer to the floor, and not pop back into its regular position. This happens because of a problem with the seal inside. If they are worn or damaged, they can allow fluid to leak. That means there won’t be enough pressure to squeeze the pads into place.

Brake fluid is low

While you don’t need to replace your brake fluid regularly like you do motor oil, it can eventually be low enough it needs a refill. Different cars have different requirements. The easiest way to tell how often your brake fluid needs replacing is to check with your car’s manufacturer, or read your owner’s manual. Then stick with a schedule, and be sure to replace it in a timely manner. Without brake fluid, you could have total brake failure. That’s dangerous at best.

Brake warning light

Luckily, today’s vehicles are designed to give you advanced warning of potential problems. If you have a newer car, chances are it’s designed with pressure sensors that will alert you if brake fluid levels drop too low. Some cars have a “brake light” indicator, while others may illuminate a “check engine” light that can mean many different things. Don’t ignore warning lights. Stopping by and allowing us to check for potential problems can alert you to small problems that are easily fixed, avoiding bigger, more expensive problems down the road.

Fluid contamination

While the master cylinder is designed to be an enclosed system, as it wears down, seals can be damaged and allow contaminates inside. This usually coincides with a brake pedal that loses responsiveness, but you can also pay attention to the brake fluid color. Brake fluid is clear, possibly with a slight yellow tint. If it darkens to brown or black, then there may be a problem with the brake fluid. You might also notice gunk forming along the master cylinder casing.

What does it mean to replace a master cylinder?

The cost of replacing your master cylinder depends on the make and model of your vehicle.

If you catch the problem early enough, it may be a simple process of flushing your braking system and inputting fresh, clean brake fluid back into the system.

If the master cylinder has sustained damage or is worn from age, it might be time to replace it altogether. This is something one of our mechanics can help you with, and make suggestions for the best way to repair your car and keep it safe.

Don’t ignore your master cylinder. At the first sign of trouble, stop by and have your brake system evaluated. It’s better to stop potential problems quickly and avoid bigger problems down the road.

Anti-Lock Brakes or Power Brakes – What’s The Difference?

November 29, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

On the simplest of terms, brakes are easy to understand. When you apply brakes, they help slow you down. Keep applying pressure and eventually, you’ll come to a complete stop.

Everything in motion uses some type of braking system. You’ll find it on heavy machinery, airplanes, bicycles, and of course, cars.

Depending on how old your car is, and how familiar you are with automotive history, you might be familiar with two types of braking systems on a car: power brakes and anti-lock brakes. What’s the difference? Why does it matter? And is one more preferable over the other?

Before we dive into that, let’s look a little deeper into how the braking system works.

How brakes on today’s cars work

If you want to slow down or come to a stop, you apply pressure to the brake pedal, and it goes into action. But while you can feel the motion taking place, a lot more is going on than you can see.

The brake pedal is connected to a rod that connects to the vehicle’s master cylinder, which is then bolted to a firewall. If you have power brakes, this rod is first bolted to a vacuum booster, which is then connected to the firewall.

This rod works as a piston inside the master cylinder. When the rod is pushed into place, it forces brake fluid through the lines. This creates action at the brake caliper level, which forces brake pads against the brake rotors, which slows the vehicle down. It’s the friction of this process, the connection between the brake pad and the brake rotor on the wheel that makes the vehicle slow down.

Understanding power brakes

If you went back in time, the braking process was rudimentary at best. Todays’ brakes are built around Pascal’s law of hydraulics, which is the law of fluids in motion and how they can be used to increase force. Pascal’s law states that when there is an increase in pressure at any point in confined fluid, there is an equal increase in pressure at every point inside the container.

That law has been transferred many times as the modern day braking system was designed and refined.

Power brakes were initially developed for heavy vehicles during WWII. It made this machinery easier to slow down and stop.

An engine naturally generates a great deal of vacuum. The concept of power brakes is designed to siphon off some of that power, and store it in a booster that is created to help with the braking process. By stepping on the brake pedal, this vacuum multiplies the effort your foot puts towards the pedal, making the entire braking process easier, with more power.

Vacuum boost power brakes became by far the most popular type of assisted brakes. That’s because it puts more power throughout the application of brake fluid, and less effort from the operator. It’s a simple system that’s reliable at the same time.

But of course, through invention and ingenuity, there is always room for improvement.

Understanding anti-lock brakes

Even as an experienced driver, there are times when your reaction speed doesn’t match the level of intensity you’re experiencing. You have to make split-decisions in order to keep your vehicle safe and on the road.

Accidents occur. And that made inventors go back to the drawing board, looking for ways to improve on the power brake system.

Even as an experienced driver, if something jumps out in front of you, or you face immediate danger, the natural reaction is to find yourself jumping on the brake pedal.

This is how anti-lock brakes, or ABS, were developed. It’s designed to prevent the wheels from locking up, which helps keep a grip on the road.

Anti-lock was first created for aircraft back in the 1950s. Sensors were used to monitor the rotational speed of each wheel, and send it in real time back to a processor. This processor controls a series of valves that meter the braking effort and force level used at each wheel. If one wheel slows down more than the others, or is on the verge of locking up and skidding, the processor reduces the hydraulic pressure in that brake line to stop the situation from happening. This works exceptionally well on wet pavement, where the car can go into a dangerous skid.

ABS reduces the risk of skidding even when you, the driver, faces excessive potential problems. Your instinct is to stop the car as quickly as possible, but with ABS, it judges how to do so safely given the current conditions. That is why it’s important to leave ample distance around you to allow ABS to do its job. Cars with ABS:

Are less likely to be in fatal accidents
Are less likely to have frontal collisions on wet or dry roads

That is why they are a standard feature on all of today’s vehicles.

Ensure your anti-lock brakes work through regular maintenance

Anti-lock brakes are designed to be there when you need them most. That means they require occasional maintenance to ensure they keep working their best.

One of the simplest steps you can take is by keeping your car clean. Brakes that are dirty, caked with oil and grime, can’t function how they were designed. Occasional washes are a good way to keep your car looking great and running equally as well.

You should also avoid overusing your anti-lock braking system. ABS isn’t something that was designed for daily use. The more aggressively you drive, the more chances you take while out on the road. Drive with care. Stay back from the vehicles in front of you so you have more time to react. Take extra care if the driving conditions change. Stay off the roads if you can avoid it in inclement weather.

You may also need to have the ABS speed sensors calibrated from time to time. Over time, they can become misaligned. One of our experienced mechanics can access the computer system at different speeds to reset and calibrate each sensor at each wheel. This should be done yearly, or any time you have maintenance work performed on your braking system.

Should You Invest In Better Brake Pads?

November 10, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

We’ve all heard the phrase, “you get what you pay for.” But does it apply to every situation? With something as sophisticated as your car’s brake system, is there a big difference between the different types of brake pads on the market?

To answer that question, let’s start with how the brake system works.

Understanding today’s modern brake system

Your vehicle is designed with four wheels, each with a brake attached to help slow it down. Car brakes may be disc or drum, depending on the way it was designed.

The front brakes provide you with more braking power. Think about the force for a moment, when you press down on the brake pedal to slow for a stoplight. The force of the vehicle moves forward, putting more pressure on the front of the car.

Disc brakes, in general, are better at stopping. You’ll find many cars today have disc brakes on the front, and drum brakes on the rear. All disc braking systems are found on some expensive or performance-driven cars, while all drum brakes may be found on older models, manufactured before disc brakes grew in popularity.

When you push down on the brake pedal, a piston moves inside the master cylinder. This allows fluid to move through pipes to slave cylinders located at each wheel. This transfer of fluid depresses pistons at each brake, forcing the brakes into action and the vehicle to slow.

This fluid is designed to distribute evenly throughout the system. This is what keeps your brake system working at optimal capacity.

You can also see the importance of having this process work correctly. An error or shutdown could have devastating impacts. Therefore, most modern cars have twin hydraulic circuits with two master cylinders, in case one of them no longer words. These twin systems can either each take a section – the front or back – or work in conjunction with each other to produce reliable force.

Why better brake pads can increase your safety

With a disc brake system, a disc turns the wheel. The disc is straddled by a brake caliper, which is controlled by pistons operating from the master cylinder. These pistons press against brake pads that case friction and stop the vehicle. These pads are shaped to cover a significant portion of the rotor, to ensure it properly stops the car.

This entire system is designed to apply pressure “just enough” to put the brakes into action. There aren’t springs to control it; instead, it all works via hydraulics, where pressure forces the pads against the rotor when the brake pedal is pressed, and released when it’s not. The two are close together by design, so only a small amount of movement is needed to put the brake system in action.

You can imagine the force needed to bring thousands of pounds of metal to a stop when it’s traveling down the road at 40, 50, or even 60 miles per hour. Brake pads endure a lot of force as you use the brakes again and again as you drive around.

When you purchase brake pads, rest assured no matter which you choose, they will get the job done. However, it’s also important to note that there are no federal safety standards for aftermarket brake pads.

Federal standards issued by the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration set rules about new car standards, but do not establish regulations for aftermarket replacement brakes. The standards set for new vehicles ensure safe driving by requiring a car to stop within a certain distance, but the same rules don’t apply for replacement parts.

That’s why it’s important to know where your parts come from, and ensure you are using a trustworthy source for brake replacement.

In general, there are two types of brake pads on the market today: ceramic and semi-metallic brake pads.

Ceramic brake pads were first introduced back in the 1980s and have gained in popularity. Ceramic brake pads are composed of a material you’ll find in your ceramic cookware, only a much denser fabric. Copper fibers are weaved through to help conduct and disperse heat. Ceramic brake pads are designed to be a softer material that won’t wear against the rotor as fast as other materials. That means they have a longer service life, will have less noise, and create less brake dust than its counterparts.

Semi-metallic brake pads, on the other hand, offer better performance. That’s because their friction quality is controlled by a variety of metals, including iron, steel, and alloys, all bound together by a small amount of graphite lubricant. You’ll find budget semi-metallic brake pads with a composition that is roughly 30 percent metal, but the best will contain higher ratios, as much as 60 percent or more. These brakes have great stopping power, durability, and dissipate heat better than other types of pads. But there is a trade-off – they can be a bit noisy, and will create more brake dust than ceramic brakes.

What’s the difference? What makes one brake pad better than another?

Ultimately, it comes down to the braking power. The major difference between the different pad materials will be on the friction layer, or the part that connects with the rotor. This is the part that causes your car to slow and stop.

Both economy and premium brakes will get the job done. Safety requirements do require all brake pads sold on the market to meet certain regulations. However, premium brake pads will offer better performance, and will always outperform lower quality brands. Premium brake pads have an increased stopping power and decreased brake fade. That means brake performance will remain consistent no matter how much pressure they are put under. That can be a big deal if you drive up and down the mountains, especially with a big payload.

Premium brake pads also use higher quality materials, which typically will give you longer wear factors. They are designed for longer service life and will wear more evenly overall. Better materials also mean less chance for particles to wear off. Brake dust can cause uneven wear on your brake pads. It can also cause squealing as the brake dust wears away.

When was the last time you replaced your brake pads?

Can Brake Pads Wear Unevenly?

October 14, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

If your vehicle relies on a disc braking system, it depends on brake pads to create the necessary friction to slow and stop your car.

Without working brake pads, your vehicle wouldn’t have the ability to bring you safely to a stop. That would put you, your vehicle’s occupants, and others on the road in danger.

They are vitally important to how well your car works.

Every time you step on the brake pedal, the brake pads engage, pressing against the spinning disc brake rotors, causing friction, and eventually wearing them down. They are designed to work together, pressing against your front wheels and back wheels with the same pressure. In most circumstances, they will wear down equally on both sides of your vehicle, no matter how much you step on the brake pedal.

However, there are situations where this isn’t so. The brake pads begin to wear, and you discover one is wearing differently than the others. Why is that so?

What causes brakes to wear unevenly?

The braking system works in pairs, with the front brakes and rear brakes wearing differently. As your vehicle moves, the forward movement puts more strain on the front brakes. This is why your front brakes wear faster than the rear.

However, if you notice that one side of your vehicle is wearing differently than the other, the issue is a bit more complicated. It can be caused by several different things.

Disc Thickness Variation

Disc thickness variation, or DTV, can be caused by different factors. It’s a mechanical term used to describe when the rotors have different thickness levels, and have worn unevenly over time. It can be caused by sticking calipers, rust, dirt and debris clinging to various parts of the pad and the rotor, or from slamming on the brakes frequently. When this thickness level is different, the brake pads will have to press against the rotor at varying degrees of friction. The rotors will have flat spots, meaning the brake pads will connect at different ratios. This will eventually cause one to wear down faster than the other.

Sticking Calipers

A brake caliper’s job is to connect the brake pads to the rotors. Without the caliper in action, the pad won’t connect properly to the rotor, bringing your vehicle to a halt. Because these brake calipers are under intense pressure and heat, they occasionally get stuck. It can be caused by dirt and grime that build up over time. As they stick, the brake pads can stay connected to the rotors, wearing down faster than usual. And because the calipers work independently on each wheel, it can wear down one faster than the others.

Misaligned Brake Pads

In order for the brake pads to work properly, they must connect with the rotor at the same level and speed every time they move into action. Because a vehicle is built for efficiency, this action is carefully aligned. Every time you start and drive your vehicle, the bumps, jolts, and movement of the vehicle can cause the connections to jar out of place. And sometimes, when you have your brake pads replaced, the mechanic may not align them evenly. All of this impacts the way your brake pads wear. Depending on when you notice this, it might be a simple adjustment. In other cases, your best course of action will be to replace the brake pads again.

Rotor Problems

Here in Colorado, the wheels of your car are in constant battle with the elements. Heat can build up in the summer, then a few months later, your wheels can be facing weeks of cold weather, mag-chloride build-up, as well as salt and gravel. That build-up can accumulate on the rotors, making uneven brake pad wear more possible. Of course, even new rotors can have a problem. If they have grease or dirt on them from where they were stored, the wear discrepancies can begin from the moment you drive away from the shop.

A warped rotor can also cause problems, if the surface isn’t perfectly smooth. This usually happens when cold water contacts a heated rotor. If the rotor isn’t perfectly smooth, the brake pad only connects with it in certain spots. Without full contact, it will wear unevenly over time. This is why you should never spray water into your wheel well immediately after intense driving.

Incorrect Brake Pads

When it comes time to replace your brake pads, it’s equally important to check with your manufacturer’s guidelines and install the type suggested. Don’t use different materials as they might not provide the same quality as designed for your vehicle. They can wear unevenly, and not give a full lifespan..

Can you change brake pads on one side only?

It is not recommended that you replace brake pads one at a time. Even if you have one brake pad worn more than the other side, it’s still preferable to replace them in pairs.

Brakes and rotors typically come in pairs – the front or the rear. Each set of brake pads will wear at the same level, which is why you typically replace them at the same time. If they wear at different levels, it’s still advisable to replace both, even if there is still wear on one. When you replace one with a new brake pad, it will not match the other wheel, which can be a hazard as you drive and attempt to brake.

How do you know if your brakes need to be replaced?

Cars are designed to send signals that it is in need of repair. Rely on your senses to help you determine when something isn’t working the way it should.

Sound – one of the most common ways people know their brake pads are worn is through sound. They make a squealing noise as you apply the brakes.

Sight – you can look at the brake pads periodically to see how worn they are. A general rule states that they should be replaced under a quarter of an inch in thickness.

Touch – do you notice your brake pedal pushes further to the ground for the same action? Does it list to one side or the other? All are indicators of a brake problem.

Smell – you can also notice odd scents that aren’t always there. Do you smell burning rubber? It may be a sign your brake pads need replacing.

Brake pads usually last about 50,000 miles. As always, check with your owner’s manual to determine the right maintenance routine for your vehicle.

If you have any questions, stop by today. We’d be happy to check your braking system, and help you create a plan to keep you and your family safe.

Are All Brake Noises Bad?

October 7, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

What’s that noise?

Maybe it’s a squeaking sound. Or maybe something is rattling.

You’d be surprised at the way people describe what’s happening inside their cars.

And we get it, It can be difficult to determine where a noise is coming from, and if it’s something to worry about.

Like most noises your vehicle can make, brake noises are designed to attract attention. While every system on your car is important, driving without a fully operational brake system could be dangerous at best.

But can you recognize bad noises from ones that aren’t of concern? Is that squeak trying to tell you something?

Not all brake noises are bad

Let’s clear this up before we move forward. When you get in your vehicle in the morning and drive away from your home, your brakes may occasionally have a squeak or a squeal.

Not all brake noises are bad.

The important thing here is to pay attention to when the noise occurs, where it’s coming from, and how long it lasts.

There are a few situations where brakes can cause a few noises, and that’s perfectly okay.

If it’s cold outside, it’s been snowing out, and there might be ice or snow on your brake pads or rotors, as the two connect as you first drive, they might squeak. As brake pads connect with the rotors, they start generating heat. Once the ice melts away, and the brake system heats up, the parts will resume, and function. The squeaking will disappear.

That’s not the only circumstance that can cause a sudden noise. Here in Denver, many of us head to the hills for a day of skiing. As you’re flying down the mountain on your drive home, your brakes may start to squeak. It could be from excessive heat. Are you riding the brakes as you come down in elevation? If the brake pads continually press up against the rotors, excessive heat builds. Eventually, the friction can start creating a noise. It may also lead to a temporary reduction in braking power, known as brake fade. If you notice this happening, pull over to a safe spot for five to ten minutes and give your brakes a chance to cool down. Learn to downshift as you descend in elevation, that can take the pressure off of your brakes.

Have you recently installed new brake pads? This can be especially annoying, knowing you’ve recently spent money on replacing your brakes. What is that brake noise? It may just be your brakes settling in. There are three different types of brake pads: ceramic, metallic, and organic. While you might not know which type you have before, it’s important to know that they each handle differently in unique situations. Metallic brake pads, for example, are performance-driven. They operate better in a wide range of conditions, making them preferable for some drivers. But when they’re brand new, metal can be especially noisy as they settle in. If you ever have any questions about performance, especially if they are brand new, we’re happy to check them.

Brake pads can also make noise if they’re dirty, and have dust buildup on the pads. Do you drive on dirt roads often? Do you clean your wheels equally as often? If you have any concerns about how your driving may impact the way the brakes work, give us a call.

What about other brake noises?

We’ve covered a few of the areas where brake noise may not be of concern. But it’s important to note that if you hear your brakes, if they make noises regularly, you’re better off getting it checked than putting it off.

If a noise doesn’t go away a few miles after you start driving, it’s time to check it out.

Grinding noises – One of the most common brake noises is a grinding noise when you apply the brakes. It kind of sounds like hitting a pavement strip when you’re driving down the highway. That grinding sound is a wake-up call, telling you the brake pad is reaching the end of its lifespan. It’s where the metal at the end of the brake pad is connecting with the metal rotor. If there’s no braking material left, you won’t be able to stop effectively.

If you continue driving this way, you risk further damage. Metal on metal can only occur for so long before both sides start wearing down. And replacing brake pads and brake rotors is far more expensive than brake pads alone. Full brake jobs include replacing calipers, pads, and rotors. If you hear that grinding noise, it’s best to drive in and have them replaced as quickly as possible.

Squeaking noise – A squeaking noise can be especially annoying. It’s designed that way to keep you safe. It may or may not be a sign of a bigger problem, but it is designed to get your attention.

It could be something as easy as telling you cheap, inferior brakes were installed on your vehicle. If they aren’t making a proper connection within the system, it could be a way of telling you something is wrong. Inferior products are the number one reason for squealing brakes. If they aren’t made from high quality products, large metal flakes can pull off and drag across the rotor as the pad makes connection. These pieces will flake away, but eventually, there will be another right behind it.

If the squeal gets more intense and never seems to go away, it’s probably worn out brake pads, where a small wear indicator is hitting the rotor. This wear indicator is placed into the pad as a warning sign. It’s designed to tell you your brake pads are worn. Don’t ignore this sound for too long; it is designed to tell you it’s time to replace your brake pads, before more damage can be done.

Are your brakes making noise?

If so, don’t ignore them. The noise will grow, the problem won’t go away. And you’re putting you, your family, and everyone on the road at risk.

Before the snow starts falling and you need your brakes in all kinds of situations, pull your car into our station and we’ll get to the root of the problem.

We’ll get you back on the streets in no time.

Why Are My New Brakes Squeaking?

September 7, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

You know when people at an event find out someone is a doctor, they start questioning them about all that ails them? The same holds true for an auto mechanic.

Of course, I’ve had people ask many different questions. But one pops up quite frequently:

I just replaced my brakes a few weeks ago. Why are my new brakes squeaking?

When you own a vehicle, it comes with the general understanding that you’ll have to provide regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. That means gas, oil changes, new tires, and the occasional brake job to ensure you stay safe and secure.

While every manufacturer is different, on average, brake pads need to be replaced about every 40,000 miles. You should check with your car’s manufacturer; you can find more information in your owner’s manual.

Also, keep in mind that 50,000 miles is just a guideline. Some cars may need new brakes after 25,000, others can push it to 75,000. It depends on a wide variety of factors, including your driving habit and road conditions.

But what happens when you are diligent at maintenance, you replace your brakes, only to find a squeaking noise every time you press down on the brake pedal just a short time later?

There are two kinds of brakes

First of all, it’s good to know a little bit about your car’s braking system.

Most cars on the road today have disc brakes. This is where a brake pad presses against a rotor or disk in order to effectively stop the vehicle. If you have a car with disc brakes, the squeaking can be caused by:

Settling overnight. If it’s rained, or condensation from moisture or dew forms on the breaks, it can squeak as your car first starts out.
Wearing down. As brakes wear down, the pad thins until it reaches a built in core designed to make noise to warn you it’s time for replacement.
Installing cheap breaks. Yes, there are differences in brake manufacturers. This is where it’s important to trust the mechanic installing your brakes.

Some vehicles also use drum brakes located on the rear wheels. Cars with drum brakes are installed with a curved pad that presses against a drum to stop the vehicle. They start to squeak when the pad contact points run out of lubrication.

What causes your brakes to squeak?

If you haven’t replaced your brake pads in a while, and you’re moving closer to your manufacturer’s suggested time frame for replacement, the squeaking can be caused from a thin brake pad. But if you’ve replaced your brake pads recently, that squeaking noise you’re hearing can be caused by other things.

Metal fibers – A lot of brake pads are made from metal fibers. Occasionally, some of these metal fibers are too close to one another, and rub together. This can cause a squeaking noise until they wear away.

Panic stopping – You know that feeling of driving and having someone dart out in front of, causing you to stomp on the brake pedal? That’s panic stopping. And when you do that right after a brake job, it can heat up the brakes and produce a glossy finish on the pad. This causes friction when you apply the brakes from that point forward, causing a squeaking noise.

Brakes stuck – The brake system works by a series of caliper pins that release and contract the brake pads to the rotors every time you step on the brake pedal and release it. If one of these caliper pins gets stuck, the brake pad sticks at an angle to the rotor, creating a squeaking sound. It’s also important to note that if both caliper pins stick, the brake pad will remain against the rotor, which typically results in a burning smell. A quick trip to a mechanic will allow us to release the stuck caliper pins and ensure it’s well lubricated, or determine if they are damaged enough to warrant new calipers, which in many cases also means new brake pads and rotors.

Brake rotors – While you may have replaced the brake pads, there may be a problem with the rotors. If the rotors weren’t replaced with the brake pads, they might not have meshed with the new brake pads. This can cause the squeaking sound, and it may take longer to come to a stop.

Low quality brakes – It may also be a fact the brake pads are of lower quality, and aren’t well suited for your vehicle. Not all brake pads are created equal. If you went with a discount brake shop, or “trusted” a friend of a friend, they may have sold you brake pads that aren’t appropriate for your vehicle. Cheap brake pads may be more prone to brake dust. This can cause more squeaking noises as you drive.

Now that you have squeaky brakes, what can you do about it?

Squeaky brakes are one of the most annoying problems you can have with your vehicle. It’s designed that way because it’s also one of the most dangerous.

But squeaky brakes are even more annoying when you’ve recently had them replaced. They can’ be in bad shape, so why the noise?

By reading the few causes from above, you might already have a good idea of what could potentially be wrong. This is where it’s important to understand how your vehicle works.

You can start by looking for loose connections or parts. In some cases, the mechanic may not have tightened the calipers, pads, and other components all the way down. This vibration may cause some sounds.

If you notice any loose clips or components, they should be replaced immediately.

You can also check the brake pads for signs of wear. Modern disk brakes have wear markers designed to make noise when the pads are close to wearing down. If you hear noises, it’s best to let a professional mechanic check out your braking system, and ensure everything is working at its best.

If you have any questions about how your braking system is working, don’t wait. It’s one of the most important systems on your vehicle. We’re happy to check the condition and correct any problems we may find.

And get you back on the road in no time.