Brake Repair

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.

Why Wheel Alignment and Brake Inspection Is Vital For Your Safety

August 18, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

When you invest in a new vehicle, a significant amount of your money goes out each month to keep it in good running condition. You change the oil regularly. You put new tires on periodically. You know that by doing a little maintenance work throughout the years, your vehicle will provide you with a reliable ride indefinitely.

Yet sometimes it can be difficult deciding what’s important, and what isn’t. Is a maintenance item more cosmetic by nature? Or should it be handled quickly to reduce the chances of a bigger problem arising in the future? That may be especially true this year, if you’re trying to find places to curb spending. Why not put off that maintenance task, or ignore the feeling you have that something isn’t quite right? If you do, you might end up with a bigger problem down the road.

Let’s talk about two major systems that are vital to how your car operates. Even if money is tight, regular wheel alignment and brake inspections will give you peace of mind that your vehicle will keep you and your family safe as you drive.

Is wheel alignment really necessary?

Let’s start with what a wheel alignment does for your car. When you get behind the wheel and drive down the street, you expect your vehicle to stay on track and drive straight with minimal effort. Your wheels were designed that way.

But driving can be hard on an alignment. Every pothole you hit, every sharp turn you make, every mile you drive has the potential to damage your wheels. It rarely is impacted all at once (although it can happen that quickly). Instead, it occurs over time, depending on the way you drive your car.

Sometimes you can see it, feel it. Take your hands off the wheel for a moment; does your car pull left or right? That’s a sure sign you’re in need of a wheel alignment. However, misaligned wheels aren’t always noticeable. In some cases, your vehicle can seemingly be going straight, but a misalignment can be affecting the accuracy of your vehicle’s response system. And that can be dangerous at best.

Misaligned wheels impact tire wear. Tires can wear out faster. Your fuel economy will suffer. And you may wind up in harm’s way as your vehicle takes longer to respond to the actions you make.

Can wheel alignment affect braking?

When you drive, you rely on your tires to turn you in the direction you choose to go. Sometimes it’s a split decision to move right or left, to avoid things in your lane. Without that ability, it puts you and your passengers at risk.

If your wheels aren’t able to turn and move quickly, it can also impact your braking. The brake pads might not be applied to the wheels at the same force, causing your car to spin out of control.

Your car has brakes on all four wheels. Each brake is operated by a hydraulic system, with either a disc or drum brake providing the force. The front brakes provide more stopping power because as you brake, it throws the weight of the car forward onto the front wheels.

As you push down on the brake pedal, it allows hydraulic fluid to travel through a pipe, to a cylinder at each wheel, forcing pistons out to apply the brakes. Hydraulic fluid ensures even distribution throughout the system, ensuring all brakes receive identical braking pressure at all times.

Anything that disrupts that connection puts you and your vehicle at risk.

What a braking inspection does

You already know that your braking system is one of the most important systems in your vehicle. That’s why it’s equally important to ensure they are working correctly at all times.

As brakes are used, the friction created as the pads press against the rotors can cause grooves. The deeper the groove, the more impact it can have on the way your vehicle stops. You’ll have to press down harder on the brake pedal to achieve the same results.

Worn brake pads can further damage the brake rotors. Time and wear can also reduce levels of brake fluid, meaning you won’t have as much pressure within the system to stop effectively. And all of that mag chloride, ice, and water we see throughout the year? Yep, it can wreak havoc on the braking system too, causing corrosion, breaking or leaks within the system.

Why you should schedule a maintenance visit today

Are you convinced wheel alignment and brake inspection are important? Here are even more reasons why you should pay attention to wheel alignment and schedule your check up today.

If your wheels aren’t aligned right, it can impact your tires. A wheel that’s not aligned correctly will point tires slightly off track. And if tires aren’t connecting with the road the way they were designed, it can wear them down quicker than their useful life.

Uneven wheels will decrease fuel efficiency. A car is designed to perfectly connect with the road. If anything disrupts that, it will reduce the way it moves down the road.

Driving a misaligned car can create more damage. If any object isn’t in perfect condition, it can cause uneven wear, and impact other parts or components.

Small problems become bigger problems when not well cared for. Brake pads are the most commonly replaced items on the braking system. But if the pads don’t wear properly, and aren’t replaced as they wear down, they can further impact other parts of the braking system.

A brake inspection is designed to evaluate the entire braking system. While you might be able to assess the condition of your brake pads, it’s more challenging to determine if the rotors are damaged, or if your vehicle is low on brake fluid.

While you might not have driven as much as normal this year, leaving your car set for periods of time can cause problems you might not usually see

Before you take that road trip, or head up in the mountains for a weekend getaway, be sure to put wheel alignment and brake inspection on your to-do list. It’s a great way to ensure your vehicle is in great shape, and will keep you on the road no matter what the future entails.

3 Easy Ways To Increase The Lifespan Of Your Brakes

August 3, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Wouldn’t it be great if you could magically wish all of your maintenance items away? Then your windows would be washed, your lawn would always be neatly trimmed, and your car would run in tip-top shape, no matter what the weather conditions throw at you.

Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Instead, you have to take on each chore yourself, monitoring the status and making choices about when to repair and when to replace.

One of the most vital systems in your car is your braking system. Imagine coming home from a weekend of skiing and not having your brakes in place. The idea is terrifying at best.

While every vehicle is different, statistics show that most will need brake replacement somewhere between 20,000 and 70,000 miles.

That’s a huge variance. And there’s a reason for that. A lot of it depends on your vehicle, and the quality of products used to build the car. But even more of it comes down to driving and care.

Are there ways to increase the lifespan of your brakes? You bet. Read on.

How brakes work

In order to increase the lifespan of your brakes, it’s important to understand how your brakes work.

A car in motion uses a lot of kinetic energy. To bring a vehicle to a stop, the brakes have to remove that kinetic energy, sometimes abruptly. Brakes do that by using friction to move kinetic energy into heat.

By pressing down on the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is pushed through the master cylinder, which ultimately applies pressure to brakes located at all four wheels. Hydraulics is what multiplies the force behind pushing down on the brake pedal.

Each wheel contains either disc brakes or drum brakes. Disc brakes have a brake disc, a brake caliper, and a brake pad. Hydraulic fluid causes the brake caliper to press the brake pad against the brake disc. This action causes friction, which sends the heat into the brake pad. A stopping car can generate as much as 950 degrees of heat, so these pads must work, and continue to work well.

Drum brakes are similar, but contain a brake drum and a brake shoe instead. The brake drum controls wheel movement. As the brake pedal is depressed, the brake shoe pushes against the brake drum, creating friction and stopping the wheel.

What causes wear on the braking system? Time and use. The more your brakes are put into action, the more wear will be given to each part in the system. But don’t think leaving your car set will be any different. Even a car that sets will eventually have parts that crack or break. It’s important to keep your vehicle properly maintained, no matter how you use it.

How can you increase the lifespan of your brakes?

If you live in an area where there’s a lot of stop-and-go traffic (hello, Denver), then you’ll be using your brakes a lot more than someone who lives in a more rural area. This impacts how fast the brake pads and rotors wear.

Normal braking will ensure you get the longest life possible from your braking system. However, there are several habits that drivers are prone to that will actually wear your brakes out faster. Reduce or eliminate these few things, and your brake life will be extended.

Speeding

Let’s start with a big one. It’s easy to feel rushed as you move throughout your busy days. When you leave even just a few minutes late for pickup or a meeting, you’re more likely to push the pedal down a little more to try and make up the time.

Pushing the speed limit causes two reactions. First, you’re more likely to ride closely to the car in front of you. This means you’re more likely to slam on the brakes when they slow down and come to a stop. You’ll use a lot more of your brake pad as you ride the brakes to control the movement of your vehicle.

Second, higher speeds mean more wear and tear. It takes more action to slow down your car, the faster you travel.

Stick with the speed limits, and drive according to road conditions. You’ll save on wear and tear, and decrease your risk of accidents.

One foot, less brake erosion

Have you ever driven behind a vehicle where the brake lights are always illuminated? They are a two footed driver. That means they use their right foot on the accelerator and left foot on the brake pedal. Instead of taking the foot completely off the brake pedal, they leave it there, resting, waiting to strike into action. The problem is they are also wearing out the braking system way before its time.

Driving with both feet doesn’t make you a safer driver. It won’t improve your response time. Instead, it causes more problems with vehicle maintenance, wearing down the brake pads and warping the rotors.

Keep your left foot on the floor, your right foot ready to spring to action, and a watchful eye on the road. That’s still the best way to drive.

Lighten your load

Depending on the vehicle you drive, you might be shuttling around several thousand pounds. If you load up the trunk with stuff, you may be adding to your load. While you might need lots of stuff when you head out on the open road for a family vacation, leave the stuff at home when you’re just moving around town. The heavier a vehicle, the harder it has to work to stop. And that means more pressure on your braking system.

This isn’t just about what you put in the trunk either. Do you have aftermarket products lining your vehicle inside and out? A ski rack on top? A bike rack on back? Remember, the heavier your vehicle, the more pressure it puts on your brakes. And the more it takes away from your wallet.

When was the last time you had your brakes inspected?

Your brakes won’t always alert you to problems in a convenient way. Being stranded by the side of the road is never fun. It can be dangerous too.

Instead, isn’t it time for your annual inspection, to ensure everything about your vehicle is running smoothly? Not only will simple tests assure you’re driving a safe car, but it can also increase the lifespan of every major system, including your brakes.

Call today for your appointment. And drive away with peace of mind.

Why Are My Brake Pads Wearing Differently On Each Side

June 29, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Let’s talk brake pads for a moment.

Your brake pads are a part of your vehicle’s braking system. Brake pads are not the same thing as brakes. Instead, they are just one piece of the entire system. However, they are one of the key components because the contact and create friction as they connect with a vehicle’s brake rotors. These are the flat, shiny disks that are often visible through your wheels.

This friction is what gives your car the ability to stop. Pressure from the brake pads on the rotors slows your car down until it eventually stops moving.

Simple, right?

The process may sound easy enough. But the concept that allows a simple piece of equipment – the brake pad – to undergo extreme conditions on a daily basis, and still carry you safely from place to place without problems is a little more complicated.

Brake pads

In the past, brake pads were often made of asbestos. The friction created between the brake pad and the rotor creates an intense amount of heat. Asbestos is a great product for absorbing that heat. The problem is, asbestos is also hazardous to your health. As brake pads wear down, brake dust begins to dissipate, with the chance of it floating through the air. That’s a dangerous thing to breathe.

Today, brake pads are created from more natural materials such as metal, rubber, glass, ceramic, Kevlar, and resin that can withstand the heat. They are sometimes referred to as organic brake pads because they are made from materials that won’t pollute as they wear down over time.

There isn’t a “one brake pad fits all.” Some are made to be softer, to help create a quieter ride. Others are made for performance, perfect for cars built for hugging the road. Knowing what type of car you drive, and the way you drive your vehicle will help determine the best brake pad for you.

Brake pads wearing differently

Over time, your brake pads will begin to wear down. As they are pressed against the rotors, they heat up. Doing this over and over again causes enough friction to remove bits and pieces from the brake pads – brake dust may often appear in your wheel wells. Eventually, it will be time to replace your brake pads.

Brake pads are the most common replacement part of your braking system. And in most cases, the brake pads will wear on each of your wheels at approximately the same pace. But what about if one of the sets of pads wears down faster than the other? What is that doing to your vehicle?

On every vehicle, you have four brake pads – a set on the front wheels, and a set on the back. Front and rear brake pads will naturally wear differently because they are designed to perform in separate ways. The forward movement of your vehicle puts more pressure on your front brakes. That means they often wear faster than the rear brakes.

However, you might occasionally notice one side wearing faster than the other. What if the driver’s side brakes are more worn down? What causes that?

It might be a problem with the brake caliper. The brake caliper is designed to push the brake pad into the rotor. Without the caliper, you wouldn’t have proper pressure between the two to slow down your vehicle. Sometimes these calipers can stick, which can push the brake pad into the rotor ever so slightly even as you drive. That means the brake pad is continuing to wear every time you go for a drive, and will wear faster than the brake pad on the other side.

It might be a problem with the rotor. Rotors are known to sometimes wear unevenly, causing a Disc Thickness Variation – DTV. This variation can be caused by a variety of things, such as the caliper sticking, dirt sticking to the pad, or even consistent slamming on the brakes.

It might be a problem with misalignment. For a brake pad to work correctly, it must be aligned in such a way so that the entire brake pad connects with the rotor when you press down on the brake pedal. If that alignment is thrown off a little, it can cause a portion of the brake pad to wear faster than the rest. Not only can brake pads wear differently on each side of the vehicle, but the brake pad itself can show different signs of wear on different portions of the pad.

You have a brake pad problem

Because brake pads are one of the most important systems on your vehicle, as brake pads wear down, they give you a variety of different warning signals.

Squeaking, squealing, grinding noises – you can’t ignore the noise of a brake pad that is reaching end of life. They are designed in such a way so that they purposely produce this noise, and will keep creating it every time you step on the brake pedal.

Slow response – have you noticed you have to press down on the brake pedal more to bring your vehicle to a stop? That’s a sign your brake pads are wearing down. It takes more force to create the same action.

Pedal feels squishy – by the same token, when you press on the brake pedal, it may have a spongy feel to it. That’s an indicator your brake pads are worn out.

Burning smell – if your brakes receive too much heat, they can take on a burning smell. That chemical odor is a sign of overheated brakes, and could be a sign they need to be replaced.

Vibrations – as you press down on the brake pedal, you might feel vibrations pulsing through your foot. It may be a sign of bad brake pads or rotors, caused by the two not connecting as they should.

You can’t change brake pads on one side

We get this question a lot. You can’t just replace one brake pad on one side of your vehicle. While it may be tempting to try and save money, keep in mind that this can be dangerous to do.

Brake pads are designed to wear evenly on both sides of your car. That means replacing both front, or both rear, at the same time.

Do you suspect uneven wear? Have you noticed your brake pads are wearing differently? Schedule a brake service check today, and we’ll ensure you’re back on the road, ready to drive safely again in no time.

Brakes 101: Does Slamming On The Brakes Hurt Your Car?

June 21, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Slamming on the brakes is something we all experience from time to time.

You’re driving along, thinking about work. Or school, or the kids, or what you’re doing this weekend, or what to pick up at the store …

At any given moment, there may be a dozen things running through your brain. But all of a sudden, you look up and see the car in front of you stop. Your only option is to slam on the brakes and hold on.

Then afterward, you take a deep breath and continue on your journey. You’re okay. But is your car?

What slamming on the brakes can do

Cause an accident – the most damaging thing that can happen is you’re involved in an accident. Depending on how severe it is determines if you’ll drive away.

But even if you don’t connect with another car, you can still cause damage inside and out. If you lose control, you might swerve into a curb, damaging your wheel. The sudden forward motion can also throw your passengers around in the car. They can jerk their heads, bump windows and doors, even experience whiplash depending on the speed.

Reduce your gas mileage – when you’ve experienced a heart-pounding experience, the last thing you might think about is your gas mileage. But if you find yourself slamming on the brakes frequently, it could be a sign you’re an aggressive driver.

Following too close and tailing people means you move into reactive driving. Your decisions are always about reacting in quick bursts, depending on what the person in front of you is doing. There is no margin of error; you have to react quickly to keep your car under control.

According to the Department of Energy, aggressive driving will lower your gas mileage by as much as 15 percent in the city, and up to 40 percent on the highway. Just think how much you’ll save if you back off and take a few extra minutes to get where you’re going.

Damage your tires – when you slam on the brakes, the most obvious part on your vehicle to sustain damage is your tires. You may hear the screech as they connect with the pavement. You may see smoke pouring up from under your car. You may smell a smell of burning rubber. That can’t be good for your tires.

And it isn’t. Sudden braking can cause flat spotting.

Flat spotting occurs when your wheels lock-up and your car skids. Because one small portion of your tires stay connected with the pavement while your car skids, it can wear that section as it remains on the pavement. That uneven wear causes a flat spot on the tread. While this might not damage your tires enough for replacement, it can shorten the lifespan of your tires.

Brake pad deterioration – brake pads are designed to connect with the rotors and create friction, which brings your vehicle to a stop. While they are designed to provide this action no matter what speed you’re going, slamming on the brakes places extra pressure on the connection. And that connection can cause your braking system to overheat.

As the braking system overheats, it can cause the brake pads to wear down faster, and allow stress to be placed on the rotors that may compromise the entire system. Even one incident of slamming on the brakes can put your entire braking system at risk, especially if your brake pads or rotors were already compromised.

How do you know if sudden stopping caused problems within your braking system? Pay attention to how your car drives. Do you have a shaky steering wheel, hear a squeaky sound as you apply the brakes again, or notice a brake light on your dashboard? All can be a sign that your braking system received more damage than you thought.

Damage to brake hoses – it’s not just the brake pads that can be impacted by a quick stop. As you push the brake pedal to the floor, brake fluid moves through the system, providing the pressure needed to bring the car to a stop.

The quick-action creates heat and pressure to move through the entire brake system, which can begin to cause damage to every part within the system. Small cracks and leaks can begin, especially if the hoses are old and were already internally weak.

Immediately following a quick stop, watch your vehicle carefully for a few days. Check under the car as you drive away – are there signs of brake fluid? Does your brake light flicker or turn on your dashboard? Watch for signs and contact one of our mechanics immediately to reduce the chances of further damage to your car.

Damage to the driveshaft – the drive shaft is what connects the engine to the wheels. This is what gives your vehicle the power to move and turn.

Think of the drive shaft as a “ball and socket” structure that allows movement and rotation. When you stop quickly, it can dislocate this structure, causing the joint to be slightly off askew.

Will your vehicle continue to drive? Possibly. Your car might not show any external damage. But over time, if this joint doesn’t perfectly mesh, it can begin to wear down and cause damage elsewhere in your car.

What you can do to prevent brake damage

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that even small amounts of damage can cause your car to wear faster, and possibly be not as safe as it was when you drove off the lot.

Keeping your vehicle in good condition means you’ll get a longer life from it, as well as keep the occupants safer everywhere you drive.

Slamming on your brakes is an easy problem to solve. Yes, we all might have to do it from time to time. But if you find it’s a normal part of your commute, it’s telling you to tone down the aggressive driving behavior.

Be more aware of how you drive. Notice hazards that you meet regularly and do what you can to avoid being placed in those situations. Leave a few minutes earlier, no matter where you’re off to, and give yourself more time to get where you’re going.

You’ll enjoy the ride more. And your car will love you for it too.

What Your Parking Brake Is For

June 14, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

There are a lot of parts to a car that we tend to take for granted. They’re there. We may use them from time to time. But we rarely think much about them.

That defines the parking brake perfectly.

The parking brake is designed for what its name suggests: to add extra security to your vehicle when it’s stopped, resting, and you’re away from the car. Of course, that’s not it’s only function. Which is why it is sometimes referred to as an emergency brake, e-brake, or hand brake too.

When you think parking brake, think safety. That’s what it’s designed for. But what is its true function?

Let’s start at the beginning.

How does a parking brake work?

A parking brake is a part of a car’s braking system. It connects to the rear brakes, and when engaged, engages the vehicle’s primary braking system with less force.

Looking back at history, the parking brake was an important part of the braking system. It was designed to give a driver another option to stop the car if, by chance, the hydraulic brakes fail while driving.

On modern cars, however, the parking brake is rarely needed in that circumstance. That could be why the name has morphed over time from the emergency brake to the parking brake.

While your primary brakes operate through a technology-driven hydraulic system that gradually brings your car to a stop, the parking brake is designed to hold your car in place.

Today, we use the parking brake as an extra precaution for keeping our vehicles motionless while parked. This can be a big benefit when parked on steep inclines or declines.

As our vehicles get more sophisticated, the way systems operate is changing too. In general, there are four different types of parking brake systems. You can check your owner’s manual to confirm what comes equipped on your vehicle.

Stick lever – on older cars, you’ll find this located on the instrument panel
Center console lever – this is located between the two front seats
Foot pedal – this is located on the floor on the left side of the pedals
Push button – with newer cars, you’ll find the parking brake can be activated by a button located somewhere on the console

When should you use your parking brake?

As the name implies, a parking brake should be used whenever you park your car. Whether you drive with manual or automatic transmission, the parking brake adds extra security when you walk away from your car.

While some will tell you that parking brakes are more important when you park on an incline or decline, others will tell you it’s equally important to use it no matter where you place your vehicle. Your braking system uses a device that keeps your brakes locked and engaged whenever you put your car into park and walk away. However, failure can occur, and it’s not just the brakes that can cause the problem. If the gears aren’t engaged, it can cause your car to roll, even on what appears to be a flat surface. Engaging it each and every time you turn off your car ensures your car stays where you place it.

Here’s a tip for reducing the stress on the drive train. If you are parking on an incline or decline, leave your foot on the brake pedal as you move the gears to park position. Before you take your foot off the brake pedal, engage the parking brake too.

Have you ever let your foot off before engaging the parking brake? Have you felt your car jolt forward or backward as it adjusts to sitting on an incline? That action over time can damage both your transmission and braking systems. That means costly repairs before their time. Engaging the parking brake first prevents this action from occurring, protecting various systems throughout your vehicle.

When you’re ready to drive, start your engine, press down on the brake pedal to engage the brake system, release the parking brake, and then move into drive. Driving with your parking brake on can damage your vehicle.

Why is a parking brake important?

Get into the habit of using your parking brake every time you stop. It gives you added stability while your vehicle is inactive. While this can be important to keep your vehicle stable while resting on an incline, there are other circumstances where this is important too.

For example, if you’re sitting on a busy street or in a parking lot, and someone hits your vehicle, the parking brake decreases the chance of it rolling, increasing the likelihood of damage.

It also keeps your car in overall good working condition. If you don’t use parts, they start to wear. A parking brake that is rarely used can stiffen, rust, corrode, weaken, and wear down, meaning it’s less likely to work when you need it most.

Like every part of your car, it’s important to have the parking brake regularly inspected to ensure it’s in proper working condition.

Potential problems with your parking brake

While parking brakes rarely present problems, you may likely find yourself in one of these situations:

Parking brake frozen – ice can cause the parking brake to freeze when it’s really cold. Leaving the engine run for a few moments can start to heat your car and make the ice melt. If this doesn’t melt it, you can find which wheel it’s connected to, and melt the ice with a hairdryer.

Rust or corrosion – over time, corrosion or rust can infiltrate the mechanism inside the parking brake, making it harder to work until it freezes altogether. It might be difficult to diagnose without having it towed in. You can apply and release the brakes a few times to see if you can disengage it. Shift between reverse and drive to see if it loosens up the debris enough to take the parking brake off. If not, your only choice is to have it towed and repaired.

Engaged too hard – when people are in a hurry, they often make quick movements that can hurt more than help. That’s often the case with the parking brake. If you pull up too hard, it can jam it. Pulling with all your strength can get the brake shoe stuck in the wheel drum. It can stretch out the cable that runs from the wheel to the brake handle enough that makes it impossible to disengage. If you’ve tried and can’t release the parking brake, it may be time to seek help.

Whether you have a question about a specific problem, or just need an inspection and check up to keep you on the road safely, we can help.

How can we help you today?

Help! My Brakes Smell Like They’re Burning

June 10, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

Ah, a new car smell. Just saying it brings thoughts to mind.

How would you describe it? While it may be difficult to put into words, what you might not know is all the time and energy put into creating it. Yes, people really do pay attention to the way a new car smells.

While you can argue how natural those smells really are, the good news is they fade away. Drive it around for a short time, and your car will no longer smell. (At least a new car smell. If you leave a gym bag behind the seat for too long, all bets are off.)

But what about when you do notice something out of the ordinary? A smell that you can’t quite put your finger on, but you know it shouldn’t be there?

There’s nothing like the smell of burning brakes. Any time you get a whiff of a burning smell while driving your car, it’s cause for concern. Safety is your top concern.

Pull over. Assess the problem.

Depending on what’s causing the smell and what you were doing when the smell first started, different courses of action can be needed.

You have new brakes

When was the last time you had your brakes serviced? When were your brakes last replaced? If you have new parts on your braking system, it could be causing the burning smell. And that’s okay.

New brake pads are covered in resin. As your brake pads adjust and settle into the braking system, the material starts to burn off. This smell is a sign your brake system is working, getting stronger each time you work them.

This break-in period is different for every vehicle, for every set of brakes. With some, you may not notice it at all. With others, it can linger for days.

Give it a few days. You should start to sense the scent disappearing. If it’s still strong days later, bring it back in and one of our mechanics will check it out.

Your parking brake may be engaged

The parking brake is a system that some drivers use all the time, others, not so much. If you fall into the “once in a while” group, you might accidentally leave it engaged.

If you notice a burning smell soon after you start driving, check to ensure your parking brake isn’t engaged. The friction caused by driving while the parking brake is on can overheat over time, eventually causing damage.

Of course, the burning smell is only part of what you might sense. Other indications include trouble accelerating, a squealing noise, or even the sound of grinding. On some vehicles, you might even have a light emit on your dashboard panel.

Double check that the parking brake is off, to rule this out as a possible cause of the burning smell.

Your brakes are overheating

The third and most serious of potential problems is if your brakes are overheating.

Every time you use the brakes on your vehicle, they work by creating friction to slow down or come to a stop. While brake pads are designed to take normal wear, if you drive aggressively or overuse them, it can lead to your brakes overheating.

We see it quite regularly because of the Rocky Mountains. If you head up into the hills regularly, it can happen if you ride the brakes coming back down. Friction causes heat. By leaving the brake pads engaged for minutes at a time, the heat builds to a point where it overheats. That’s when the burning smell starts. Some people say it smells like carpet burning. In any case, it’s a scent you’ll pick up on immediately, and one you should pay attention to for safety.

The smell might be the first indication, but there are usually more. You may notice the brake pedal feeling a little spongy when you press down on it. You might notice a stream of smoke coming from under the car.

Your first course of action is to get to safety and stop. Give your brakes a chance to cool down while you consider your next actions.

How to avoid overheating

Especially here in Colorado, it’s important to have other ways to control your vehicle.

First, drive cautiously, not aggressively, leaving plenty of space all around you. If you’re not following close behind another car, you’ll have more opportunity to apply light pressure instead of pouncing on the brake pedal. It’ll also prevent you from riding the brakes, using them consistently throughout your drive.

Next, try downshifting instead. Even automatic engines have multiple gears for this reason. Instead of riding the brakes, especially coming down a steep hill, downshift and let the engine do the work instead.

Finally, have a mechanic as a friend. If you schedule regular checkups for your vehicle, you’ll stay on top of potential problems. You’ll learn if your brakes are wearing down, or discover how much tread is left on your tires. You’ll take the guesswork out of staying on top of what work needs to be done to your car.

Is it all brake pads? Can it be just one?

It’s also important to keep in mind that brake pads can sometimes wear at different levels. Your front end and read brake pads naturally will wear differently.

Even then, as your vehicle is moving forward, this momentum tends to put more strain on the front brakes. This often causes them to wear quicker than the rear brakes.

However, you’ll sometimes find brakes wearing on one side more than the other.

It’s the brake caliper’s job to push brake pads against the rotors. This is what creates the friction, causing your vehicle to stop. If the caliper sticks, meaning it stays pressed against the rotor, it will wear faster than usual.

Sometimes rotors wear unevenly, which is known as disc thickness variation. It can wear due to sticking calipers, or dirt getting trapped between the pad and the rotor. Pouncing on the brake pedal frequently can also cause a problem.

It might even be a misalignment in the brake pads. If they bounce, or simply not installed right, it can also lead to problems.

Take action – have your brake system checked

Smells are designed to give you advance warning of a problem.

If you notice a distinct smell to alert you to burning brakes, safety is your first concern. Give us a call soon after. We can get your car in, make necessary repairs, and have you back on the road again in no time.

6 Ways To Keep Your Brakes Working All Year Long

April 21, 2020 by Denver Express Car Care

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 Denver Express Car Care

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.