Brake Service

Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs of Brake Problems

September 7, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Imagine heading up into the mountains for a day of skiing. You drive deeper into the hills, closer to your destination on snow-packed roads. Suddenly, as you tap your brakes, it feels a bit squishy. Almost as if the brakes aren’t there. You tap again. Something’s not right.

Will you be able to bring your car to a stop?

Will you trust your brakes on the ride home?

That’s the last thing you want to have happen on your fun-filled day trip. Luckily, a little TLC and regular maintenance can prevent that from happening.

Your brakes won’t fail without advanced warning. Your brakes will give you ample notice to bring your vehicle in for servicing long before it creates a problem.

What should you watch for?

Squealing or grinding noise

One of the most common indicators of brake problems starts when you apply pressure to the brake pedal. If you hear a high-pitched squeal, this could indicate wear on the brake pad. Brake pads are made with a steel indicator band to let you know they’re reaching end-of-life. This metal band connects with the rotor as you apply pressure, and the metal-on-metal creates a distinctive sound. If you keep driving once you notice this sound, the metal will wear into the rotor, causing additional problems that will be even more costly to fix.

A grinding noise could indicate different things. Are your brakes fairly new? The grinding sound could be something like gravel stuck in the brake calipers. Or if the brake pads have worn down to the metal indicator bar, it could be the metal-on-metal sound.

Don’t Ignore These Warning Signs of Brake Problems

Vibration when braking

As you drive, you grow accustomed to the way your car handles. If you notice a change in performance, pay attention to what is occurring. This can help a mechanic get to the heart of the problem.

If your steering wheel or vehicle shakes or vibrates when you apply pressure to the brake pedal, it might be an indicator of a problem with the brake rotor. The brake rotor is a large disc that sits just inside the wheel. When you apply pressure to the brake pedal, the brake pad presses against the brake rotor to bring the car safely to a stop.

Over time, the rotor surface can change. Material from the pad can cause divots and uneven wear marks. If the brake pads wear down to the metal bar, that can also cause irregular wear marks on the rotor. This unevenness affects the stopping power when you press down on the brake pedal. Brake servicing can fix uneven brake rotors, smoothing down the surface, providing it’s not too worn to fix. If the divots and worn marks are too severe, you’ll have to replace the brake rotors.

Leaking fluid

Like other systems in your vehicle, the brake system uses brake fluid for proper performance. When you apply the brakes, the system uses brake fluid to create hydraulic pressure against the brake caliper. If the braking system is low on brake fluid, the pressure won’t be there to control your vehicle.

If you experience a soft brake pedal, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection. They can check to ensure brake fluid isn’t leaking from the master cylinder or elsewhere in the brake system.

You can also check your owner’s manual for guidelines on how often brake fluid should be checked and serviced. While it doesn’t need replacing like motor oil, fluid can be compromised over time.

Spongy brake pedal

When we drive, almost every aspect becomes automatic, second nature, because the car behaves in a certain way. When you notice differences, it’s time to take action.

A brake pedal provides certain resistance as you push down, and hydraulics kick into action. If the brakes feel softer as you press it further to the floor, it’s time for immediate service. It’s an indicator of moisture or air in the braking system, or a problem with the master cylinder.

Car pulling to one side

A vehicle contains four wheels, four brake pads, and four calipers. In a perfect world, all four would wear similarly. However, that’s rarely the case. If one caliper wears differently, or a brake hose goes bad, it can cause more pressure on one wheel. You’ll notice that in your car’s behavior.

With more pressure on one side, the stopping power will be uneven. You’ll notice the car pulling to one side or the other. This will only get more pronounced if left unchecked.

Burning smell

A sharp burning smell after continually using your brakes is an indicator of overheating brakes. Pull over and give your brakes a chance to cool down. You can also further assess the situation.

Check the parking brake. Is it fully released?

If you see smoke coming from one of the wheel wells, it could be a sign of a stuck brake caliper. If it’s stuck in place, your vehicle is no longer safe to drive. You may have to tow it in for repair.

Brake light turns on

One of the good things today’s cars offer is technological advancements that can alert you to potential problems. Your dashboard panel has a variety of lights and indicators to help you decide when to service your car. When you see the brake light illuminate, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for an inspection.

In some cases, a brake light can be an indicator that your parking brake is on. Check to see if the parking brake is engaged. With that fully released, it’s time to schedule a maintenance visit if the brake light is still on.

Do you have brake problems?

Your brake system is one of your vehicle’s most important systems. Without brakes, you put yourself and those around you at risk.

Think you may have brake problems? Make an appointment today. We’ll get you safely back on the road.

A Guide To Regenerative Braking Systems

August 4, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Regenerative braking systems are included in most hybrid and electric cars. You’ll even find regenerative braking on some gas-powered vehicles. It converts the kinetic energy your car creates and turns it into electrical power. It’s more efficient than the process used by gas-powered vehicles.

When you tap on the brake pedal, the kinetic energy of the car’s forward motion converts into heat as the brake pads connect with the rotors in a disc or drum. That heat dissipates into the air and away from the vehicle, instead of being used more efficiently.

A regenerative braking system captures that heat and uses it for better efficiency.

How a regenerative braking system works

Let’s dive a little deeper into how a regenerative braking system works.

Traditional brakes on a gas or diesel-powered vehicle work through hydraulics. When you touch the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid moves brake calipers to connect brake pads with the rotors. This decreases the rotational spin of the wheel, gradually slowing it down until it comes to a stop. Drum brakes work a bit differently, but the overall principle is the same.

With either drum or disc system, it involves transferring kinetic energy back into the environment. It takes the friction that causes heat within the braking system and moves it away from the vehicle.

When you move to hybrid or electric motors, the braking system works a bit differently. As you press down on the brake pedal, the generator increases power, causing more resistance, slowing the vehicle until it stops. This process causes electrical current to flow back to the battery pack, where it continues to power the system. This is why regenerative braking works well in urban settings, because it continually recharges the system with stop-and-go traffic. Each stop at a traffic signal or in heavy traffic situations gives you an added boost when you accelerate again, which actually improves gas mileage and efficiency.

Regenerative braking extends battery life

Because kinetic energy builds as regenerative brakes are used, it helps keep the battery charged and ready to power the accessories used throughout the vehicle. For an electric vehicle, it can help preserve battery life, allowing your vehicle to travel further between power fill-ups. On all vehicles, it reduces wear and tear on the overall braking system, extending the life of the various brake parts.

If you haven’t experienced regenerative brakes before, it takes a bit to get used to the feeling. The added friction can cause more slowing as you move your foot from the brake to the accelerator. Drivers often say it feels more like an on/off switch – now you have power, now you don’t. It makes it feel a bit jumpier during transitions, and takes a bit to get a feel for creating smooth transitions.

In hybrids and newer systems, manufacturers are working to improve the feel of the transition. Some models only use one pedal for all movement.

Brake checks and replacement are still required

One of the reasons people move towards newer technology is the idea of lowering the amount of maintenance required on the vehicle.

Today’s electric technology requires little or no maintenance for the battery, motor, and other electronic parts. There are fewer fluids to check and refill, too, such as motor oil that needs replacing every 5,000 miles or so.

With regenerative braking systems, the friction doesn’t wear on the components the way a traditional system does. It significantly reduces brake wear.

That said, brakes are still a safety feature that needs to be checked from time to time. Reports show that brake rotors and pads can last 100,000 miles or more.

Regenerative braking systems still use physical brakes. That means they mirror traditional brake construction, with rubber, fluids, and metal all being impacted over time. And that means they can suffer many problems found with conventional brakes, and still need maintenance over time.

Electric vehicles might not use motor oil, but they still need brake fluid to function. And no matter how well cared for your vehicle is, brake fluid degrades over time. Especially if you’re not pumping the brakes at regular intervals. If you work from home more and your vehicle sits in the garage for days, it can impact brake’s health.

Traditional brake maintenance revolved around worn out parts. Manufacturers had specific guidelines for replacing things like brake pads, rotors, and drums. They built safety features to warn you when things were wearing down to decrease the risks associated with brake failure.

Because regenerative brakes utilize different energy for braking, the components might not wear down as fast. But it is important to pay attention to brake fluid replacement, changing it based on mileage and timing. Even if you work from home and don’t take it on the road daily, fluid can still be compromised and degrade over time.

That’s why many elective vehicles include frequent brake fluid check-ups and replacement, often once every two years.

Another problem can be rust build-up, unless your car is specifically designed with carbon-ceramic brakes or other systems that are non-metallic. A little bit of surface rust won’t impact performance. But if it’s unchecked for too long, it can break through and cause more extensive problems. Detailing the brakes, especially after extended downtime, is a good idea to ensure they are working well and haven’t seized.

Proper maintenance – the key to any vehicle’s long life

Whether you drive a gasoline, diesel, hybrid, or electric vehicle, ensuring a long life starts with proper maintenance.

Instead of waiting for a problem to arise, regular inspections will allow the problem to be fixed early, meaning you’ll spend less time facing bigger issues down the road.

Regenerative brakes are the future of the automotive industry. They work better, last longer, and provide your vehicle with added safety features.

Yes, regenerative braking is more manageable in urban environments where they get a boost every time you use them. Just keep the process mild, without pouncing on the brakes to ensure the longest life possible.

Do you have any experience with a regenerative braking system?

How To Extend The Life of Your Car’s Brakes

May 10, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Driving a car is a little bit of paying attention to the road in front of you, and a little bit of listening to how well your car is operating.

If you listen, you can hear squeaks, chirps, and hums, warning you a potential problem is on the horizon. You can watch for smoke, feel vibrations, or even notice a burning smell coming from underneath the hood, all warning you something is wrong.

Your car’s braking system is one of the most vital systems on your vehicle. And even in the best circumstances, you’ll have to replace the brake pads every 30,000 to 70,000 miles or so.

Is it possible to extend the life of your car’s brakes? Can you make your vehicle’s brakes last longer?

Understanding the brake system

Before we get into extending the life of your car’s brakes, it’s important to understand how they work.

All modern vehicles on the road today use hydraulic brakes. They work by pressurizing and transferring brake fluid to each of the braking components located at each wheel. Whether disk or drum brakes, they use this pressurized fluid to apply the friction of the brake pad material against the rotors, creating the pressure needed for braking.

How To Extend The Life of Your Car’s Brakes

Many cars on the road also use anti-lock brakes. These have wheel speed sensors, a computer control module, and an actuator to work together with the hydraulic brakes and prevent them from locking up during hard braking. They keep the car safer under extreme conditions.

Hybrid vehicles also bring a regenerative braking system that works alongside hydraulic brakes, using electric components to initially slow the car. It relies on hydraulics to bring it safely to a stop.

A parking brake provides added protection when hydraulic or regenerative braking systems need support. They apply more pressure on the rear braking assembly, perfect for keeping your car in place so it won’t roll.

How can I make my brakes last longer?

Modern braking systems function and rely on several key parts.

Master cylinder – used to push hydraulic fluid down into the brake lines
Brake rotor – spins while the vehicle moves, used in conjunction with the brake pad and caliper to cause friction to slow the car
Brake drum – the alternative to a brake rotor, used when cars use drum brakes instead of disc brakes
Brake pad – they rub against the spinning brake disc
Brake caliper – provide the clamping force that pushes the brake pad into the rotor
Brake shoe – used on drum brakes, the alternative to a brake pad
Brake booster – amplifies pressure from pushing down on brake pedal
Brake pedal – small pedal by the gas pedal
Brake lines – transfer brake fluid between the master cylinder and wheels

If you want to extend the life of your car’s brakes, knowing what each piece does helps you make better decisions while driving. Extending the life comes from care and maintenance of each piece of the braking system.

Inspect your brakes regularly – in order to properly maintain the brake system, it’s important to have it thoroughly checked. At a minimum, schedule a yearly maintenance visit to allow a mechanic to inspect the system and make any necessary repairs. If you are road tripping and will be driving extensively, you might have the brake system checked first to ensure it’s working properly. You can also have the brake fluid levels checked to ensure the hydraulics work efficiently.

Slow down – one of the hardest things for your braking system is to stop a fast-moving car. If you find yourself stomping on the brake pedal frequently, back away and give yourself more braking room. Extra heat on the brake pads adds friction, which wears down the material faster. It can also cause the rotors to warp as well.

Change your driving habits – tailgating leads to a lot of quick braking. When you leave more space, it gives you more room to slow down. Without pouncing on the brakes, it saves the brake pads by reducing the amount of heat transferring within the system.

Reduce the weight of your vehicle – more weight takes more stopping power. Instead of carrying a lot of extra equipment in your car, leave it behind and only haul what’s absolutely necessary. This will also help you improve your gas mileage too.

Is there such a thing as lifetime brakes?

We’ve recently seen flyers that offer a lifetime guarantee on brake pads. Seems too good to be true, doesn’t it? That’s because it is.

It’s just one more tactic repair companies use to try and gain your loyalty over time.

Brake pads will wear out. It’s a fact.

Different manufacturers may provide slightly different materials, which can provide you with a somewhat different lifespan. Yet overall, brake pads will last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. It depends on type, composition, even the way you drive your vehicle. But eventually, your brake pads will wear out.

Those lifetime brakes are a ploy to bring you back into the repair shop where you originally had them installed. With a “warranty” in hand, they’ll gladly give you “free” brake pads. Where you’ll pay is in the labor charges. And their labor charges are probably going to be one of the highest rates in the area.

You’ll pay one way or another.

This concept of “lifetime” brakes can be problematic for another reason: It gives the driver a false sense of hope. If you don’t anticipate your brake pads wearing down, you don’t look at minor telltale signs that your brakes are failing.

The braking system contains more than brake pads. It’s a series of parts and components working together to keep your car under control and ultimately bring it to a stop. Those parts can wear down just as easily as brake pads. Even with wear left on your brake pads, these other parts can fail.

And if you aren’t anticipating it, you might overlook the warning signs. Putting you in danger.

Are your brakes operating well?

What Happens When Brand New Brakes Squeak?

May 4, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When people replace old brake pads, it’s usually because they are old, worn down, and making a horrible noise. It’s hard to ignore that high-pitched squeak every time you press down on the brake pedal.

So it can be disheartening when you drive away from the mechanics, step on the brake pedal, and discover your brakes are still making a noise. What is that squeak? And why is it making that sound? There’s a good reason for that.

Why old brakes squeak

Before we dive into why your new brakes are squeaking, let’s build up your understanding of how the brake system works.

Brakes are one of the most crucial systems on your vehicle. Without them, you could be put in dangerous, even life-threatening situations on a daily basis.

That’s why brake pads have their own internal warning system to alert you to a potential problem. As the brake pad wears down, metal is revealed within the brake pad to connect with the rotor as you apply pressure to the brakes. This metal-on-metal connection creates a squeak you can’t ignore.

It’s for safety.

So why would new brakes squeak?

When you replace the brake pads, the metal core is no longer visible, so the sound should disappear.

But sometimes it doesn’t. What could be the problem?

Road debris

Even living right here in the Denver Metro area can provide you with many different driving experiences. Do you live in the Foothills, driving up and down steep hills each day? Do you live just outside of town in a rural area, where dirt roads are a normal part of your routine? Or maybe it’s highway all the way. But those potholes and road debris can sometimes be quite alarming.

Even urban driving can have a minefield of potential problems on the roadway. Rocks, sticks, nuts and bolts, acorns, stones, and more can all harm your vehicle in many ways. As you drive away from the mechanics, a small piece of debris can make its way up and get stuck between the brake pad and the rotor. Do you hear the sound even without pressing down on the brake pedal? That’s most likely the case.

Pay attention for the next few miles. It may work its way out of the system, or break down without causing more issues. If you still hear it, bring it in for a second look.

Moisture

It might be the weather. As you drive a few dozen miles after installing new brakes, what road conditions have you faced? Ice? Snow? Rain? Wet pavement? All of that can form a thin layer of condensation between the brake pads and the brake rotor. This can lead to a thin layer of rust on the rotor, which can break off into tiny pieces and stick to the brake pad. This causes a squeaking noise as the two connect.

In most cases, this noise will disappear after pressing down on the brake pedal a few times. If it doesn’t, bring it in and we’ll take a look.

Break-in period

When brake pads are replaced, the brake rotors are removed, measured, machined, and possibly replaced. They need to have a smooth, flat surface to ensure good connection between the rotors and the brake pads.

If this process doesn’t occur, the connection might not be a close fit. That can allow several things to occur, including glazing.

Glazing is a hardening process that creates a smooth pad surface. This makes it difficult to create the necessary friction for stopping the vehicle.

It can happen with repeated rapid braking where you stomp on the brakes. Or if you drive with your foot on the brake pedal, keeping the brake pad constantly connected with the brake rotor. That excess heat causes glazing. And you might hear it in the form of a squeak.

Brake pad material

Not all brake pads are the same. There are several different brake pad materials, depending on which you have installed.

Most cars on the road today use semi-metallic brake pads. They’re created from metal shavings of copper, steel, graphite, and brass, bonded with resin. They are best suited for vehicles used for everyday driving. They perform well, last a long time, and are economical.

Organic brake pads are quieter than other materials. They are created from non-metallic compounds such as glass, rubber, and Kevlar. They are eco-friendly, which is why some drivers prefer them. Yet they aren’t as durable and will need replacing sooner. They are designed for lighter traffic situations.

Ceramic brake pads are best suited for high-performance vehicles. They are made from ceramic fibers and other materials. They are very durable and perform well in many different situations.

Different brake materials create different sounds on your vehicle. While you may be used to the way your vehicle performed before, it might take an adjustment to your new brake sounds. If you have any questions, give us a call.

Quality

Where did you go to have your brake pads replaced? While we strive to deliver quality service every time, we can’t say the same for every mechanic.

This is where reputation comes into play. When you get to know a mechanic, you build a relationship with the service they provide. You have a better understanding of the work they do.

Going with a “good deal,” or even a friend down the road can lead to serious consequences.

Did the technician you entrusted brake replacement to provide full-service? Did they install high-quality brake pads? Did they spend the extra time cleaning and lubricating the various brake system parts?

Are your new brake pads squeaking?

When you replace old brake pads, your new brake pads should work well. If you hear squeaking, squealing, or some other sound, it should disappear after a few miles. If not, bring it in for a second look.

What brake questions can we answer for you?

How Do I Know If My Brake Rotors Are Bad?

April 3, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

A faulty brake system is never good. While many drivers are clued into listening for a high-pitched squealing noise, indicating their brake pads have come to the end of their lives, it’s more difficult to pinpoint brake rotor problems. When brake rotors are bad, they have several distinctive ways of telling you they are in need of replacement.

What are brake rotors?

If you peer into your wheels, you’ll notice circular discs connected to each wheel. These are your brake rotors. Rotors are designed to turn motion into heat. They transfer kinetic energy into thermal energy to ensure safe braking. As you press down on the brake pedal, it sends a signal to the master cylinder, to the brake calipers, causing the brake pads to press together against the surface of the brake rotor. This friction resists the spinning wheel, which slows the rotation, eventually bringing the vehicle to a halt.

Different types of brake rotors

Just like there are different types of vehicles, so are there several different types of brake rotors. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all component. Check with your owner’s manual to determine what’s right for your vehicle.

Depending on what vehicle you drive, you’ll have one of four primary brake rotors on the market today.

Blank & Smooth – these are the most common rotors for passenger vehicles. They are simple in design and affordable. However, as automotive practices change, some of these rotors may be created from recycled materials, meaning they don’t perform as well or last as long as other rotors. Typically they have a longer life because of a thicker material and internal fins, which allow them to cool brake pads more efficiently. You’ll notice the smooth, blank metal surface area if it uses this rotor.

Drilled – drilled rotors have slots positioned around the exterior rotor surface instead of holes. These holes provide heat loss as well as allow dust and water to escape the rotor’s surface without clogging or blocking the entire braking system. Drilled rotors are more common in wet climates where they can aid drivers in keeping control over their vehicles on wet roads. They won’t last as long in high heat situations.

How Do I Know If My Brake Rotors Are Bad?

Slotted – slotted rotors have slots positioned around the exterior of the rotors. They are most often used in heavy-duty trucks and SUVs, as these vehicles typically require more stopping power. They may also be used on other vehicles that routinely tow heavy loads. The slots draw in extra air between the rotors and the brake pads. This gives the rotors better cooling and heat dissipation. Like drilled rotors, they wear down faster and won’t last as long.

Drilled and slotted – these rotors combine the best of both drilled and slotted rotors. They use both drilled holes and slots set in a spiral pattern to help with better heat dissipation and debris removal. You’ll find these on high-performance vehicles that require top-tier cooling and heat removal to achieve their performance. They are also at the top of the expense list.

What are the signs of bad rotors?

When brake rotors wear down, they produce a number of signs to warn you of a potential problem. Acting fast may reduce the repair work, and will also prevent further damage to the braking system.

A vibration in the steering wheel

This can’t be missed. As you press down on the brake pedal, a noticeable vibration occurs in the steering wheel. As you step on the brake, the brake pads press against the rotors, and the rotors gain heat quickly. This heat can cause the rotors to wear down unevenly, creating unevenness across the surface area. As the brake pad hits these wear marks, it causes the vibration to move up the braking system and into the steering wheel.

A screeching sound

You can’t miss a screeching sound. It’s caused when the brake pads engage with a rotor that has developed grooves over time. As the surface area of the pads connects with the rotor, it creates a high-pitched sound that’s hard to ignore. You won’t have to ask twice if your brakes need a little TLC. A mechanic can pinpoint the problem, whether it stems from the brake pads, brake rotors, or somewhere else in the system.

A blue color on the rotor surface

Excessive heat can quite literally change the color of the rotors. To check for blue spots on the rotor, kneel down and look beyond the wheels and wheel spokes. The rotor disc sets behind. If you notice a blue color anywhere on the surface, it’s worth a trip to the mechanics. If heat is compromising the brake rotor in any way, the damage could extend throughout the braking system. That puts you at risk every time you drive.

Excessive wear

When a manufacturer designs every part on a vehicle, they set guidelines in place as to how it will perform under normal wear. That changes situation to situation. Your car may stay within the guidelines, or may move beyond depending on what you face each day. That’s why it’s a good idea to perform visual checks from time to time, as well as schedule regular maintenance visits to ensure everything is working well.

How to avoid rotor breakdown

While rotors are designed for a lifetime of use, not all rotors last the life of a car. Especially with today’s technology where cars can move 250,000 miles or more over the life of the car.

Just like brake pads, brake rotors are impacted just a little bit every time you take your vehicle out for a drive. The more miles you put on the vehicle, the greater chance of it wearing out over time.

The exact lifespan depends on:

The quality of the rotor
How efficiently the rotor dissipates heat
The type of brake pad used
How you drive
Where you drive
Climate
Exposure to elements like rock salt and mag-chloride
How aggressively you brake

Looking for affordable brake repair service? We pride ourselves on being a family-operated repair business that can help you with all of your needs. Give us a call today.

A Guide To Brake Calipers

March 28, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Car maintenance for most people can be divided into two categories: the parts you understand, and the parts you don’t.

As a driver, changing the motor oil, replacing tires, and fixing the brakes when they squeak is pretty commonplace. We understand the process, know the warning signs, and fit those duties into our routines.

But what about digging deeper? What about maintaining your car’s brake calipers.

What are brake calipers?

Glad you asked.

What is a brake caliper?

The brake caliper is the part of a vehicle that pushes the brake pad to the brake rotor to effectively bring your car to a halt. It’s hydraulic, which uses fluid pressure to cause movement.

Brake calipers resemble a clamp, and partially frame the brake rotor. The caliper houses the car’s brake pads and pistons, creating friction as it slows the vehicle down. They are the heart of the braking system in vehicles that use disc brakes.

Overall, brake calipers have two functions:

1. They guide the brake pads. Brake calipers aren’t an on/off component. Instead, they’re used to guide your vehicle along based on traffic conditions. A little pressure slows you down. More pressure brings you to a stop. Brake calipers have a design feature that ensures the brake pads are always efficient and reliable for the overall braking process.

2. They convert brake fluid into mechanical movement. This process uses hydraulic brake fluid for the braking action within your vehicle. Without the brake caliper, this process wouldn’t take place as effectively as it does, keeping you safe in the process.

How do brake calipers operate?

To understand how a brake caliper operates, you need to step back and look at the entire braking system.

When you apply the brakes, a piston is pushed into motion, putting pressure on the brake fluid in the master cylinder. The brake fluid moves through hoses in the brake lines, from the master cylinder to the brake caliper.

This fluid pressure creates movement in the caliper pistons, resulting in the brake pads pushing forward to make contact with the rotor. Different vehicles use different types of calipers, which each have varying amounts of pistons. This squeezing action causes friction against the moving rotor, causing it to slow. More pressure means more slowing action, reducing the speed or bringing it to a halt altogether.

When you release pressure on the brake pedal, the situation reverses. Hydraulic fluid returns to the master cylinder, and the brake caliper pistons return to their resting position. It sits in waiting for the action to arise again.

As you step on the brake pedal, fluid pressure is released to all four wheels simultaneously, in the same quantity. This results in balanced braking, and ensures your vehicle’s safety.

What are the two types of brake calipers?

Brake calipers come in two categories: floating and fixed. They differ in design, mourning, and operation.

Floating calipers are compact and lightweight. They lack power when compared to a fixed caliper. Instead of being mounted rigidly to the rotor, they slide freely on lubricated pins and bushings. Hydraulics moves the piston and squeezes the inboard brake pads against the brake disc when you step on the brake pedal. That gives the caliper free movement to move along the rotor on the backside, creating clamping action as necessary for control and movement.

Fixed calipers have multiple pistons that make them more powerful than floating. They are more suitable when a lot of power is needed – racing cars or heavy vehicles that require a lot of stopping power. They have more braking force distribution, and produce a firmer, more powerful grip of the rotor as you press down on the pedal.

Both have advantages and disadvantages. Floating calipers are the most commonly used by manufacturers today. Check with your owner’s manual to determine which is used in your vehicle.

The signs your calipers need replacing

Whale brake pads will need replacing over the lifetime of a vehicle, brake calipers are designed to last the life of the car. That isn’t always the case. If they are damaged in any way, you’ll start to notice the way your car drives.

Vehicle pulls to one side when driving or braking

If your car seems to pull to one side while driving, the caliper may be the problem. The pistons move in and out from the hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder. If there is debris or corrosion, it can cause these pistons to freeze up. This will result in the brake pad being unable to connect properly with the rotor. The car will pull towards the side of the damaged caliper when the pistons fail, or away from the damaged side if the brake pad fails to connect with the rotor. This can happen while driving or during braking.

Squealing or rubbing noises

When parts don’t operate the way they should, they can create noise from the areas impacted. While brake pad damage makes a distinct noise every time you apply the brakes, calipers will produce noise whether the brakes are applied or not. When you notice a high-pitched squealing or a metallic rubbing noise while driving and it doesn’t go away, bring your vehicle in as soon as possible, as this can lead to complete brake failure.

Uneven brake pad damage

Brake pads are designed to last 30,000 to 70,000 miles. Because brakes are precise in function, both sides of the car should wear down at approximately the same time. If one brake pad is distinctly different than the other when you replace them, it could be a sign there is something wrong with the brake caliper.

Brake fluid leak

Anytime you notice brake fluid leaks around the car, it’s a sign of damage. Brake fluid is a light yellow color that may darken as it ages. If you touch it, it has an oily, slippery feel. If a caliper leaks, it may cause a slight oily spot on the ground inside the tire. Different things could cause this, so it’s important to inspect them as soon as possible.

What happens if you don’t break in car brakes?

March 21, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Getting new brakes on your vehicle? Be sure to break them in the right way as you drive shortly after installation. It’s the only way to ensure performance over the life of the brakes.

Breaking in new brakes is also known as bedding-in the brake pads and rotors. If you don’t properly bed in brakes, you may experience problems with the braking system down the road, such as warped discs, uneven brake pad wear, or noise brakes every time you tap on the brake pedal.

Every time you install new brakes, the bedding-in process should be performed slowly for maximum effect. Most brake pads take 300 to 400 miles to fully break in and remove the transfer film from the rotors.

For most drivers, this simply means driving at your normal pace. But being aware of the process from the moment you drive out of the service station will ensure maximum results.

What is bedding-in?

If you’re getting new brake pads and rotors, take a look at the surface area of the old equipment. You’ll notice that old rotors have a shiny grayish-blue glaze on the surface. This is known as pad transfer. It comes from brake pads pushing up against the rotor many times over the life of the equipment. Brake pads create high friction to slow down and stop a vehicle. The material from the brake pad deposits onto the rotor over time, creating friction and helping your vehicle come to a stop. Pad transfer lays the foundation for a good braking system.

What happens if you don’t break in car brakes?

When you install new brake pads and rotors, this process hasn’t occurred. Brake pads and rotors are still two separate pieces of equipment. They need time to come together and function well.

Why you should break in car brakes

As you drive away from the service station for the first time after having new brake pads and rotors installed, the two start working together every time you slow down or come to a stop. The brake pad connects with the rotor, and starts leaving traces of pad transfer on the surface.

If you pounce on the brakes and perform this process too quickly, the pad can transfer quickly onto the rotor. This can cause an uneven surface area of pad transfer on the rotor. As you drive and this process continues to build, new pad material will build on this surface, creating an uneven texture on the rotor. In most cases, this will eventually be diagnosed as a “warped rotor”. The entire thing can be avoided by spending a little extra time after installation driving carefully to allow this process to occur.

Breaking in your brakes: the bed-in process

While many drivers bed-in new brakes through everyday driving, it’s important to understand the process if you wish to ensure proper breaking in of your car’s brakes. It requires Quickly heating and cooling the brakes in repeated movements to ensure proper pad transfer. It looks like this:

Find a safe place to drive – you’ll need space to reach up to 45 to 50 mph, and be able to quickly stop without impacting drivers around you. Ensure your safety and those around you first.

Warm-up – start with four normal stops. Bring your vehicle up to 30 mph or so, and bring your vehicle to a controlled stop.

Bed-in – perform eight more aggressive stops where you bring the vehicle up to around 45 mph, and bring it to a controlled stop. Be firm and aggressive with the braking, ensuring the wheels don’t lock up.

Cool-down – park your vehicle and allow it to completely cool down for at least an hour.

Then drive your vehicle as you normally would. Your braking system is ready to go.

Other maintenance items to do when installing new brakes

Now that you know how to break in new brakes, you should also know that to keep your braking system in good condition, there are a few other things a technician will do as they install new brakes.

Check the brake fluid

Brake fluid is a chemical solution used to keep the hydraulic brakes working correctly in all modern vehicles. It is designed to boost your foot’s power every time you step on the brake pedal, increasing the pressure of your car’s brakes. Without brake fluid, you would need a lot more force to slow your vehicle and bring it to a stop.

When you work on the brake system, it’s always a good idea to check the brake fluid and ensure it’s clear. When brake fluid is in good condition, it’s a lighter, clearer color with a thicker viscosity. The darker and thinner it becomes, the more compromised it may be. It will be replaced if necessary.

Brake system check

Ensure the entire braking system is working well. From the brake pedal to brake fluid, calipers, and brake pads, each piece of the braking system is important to ensure safety while driving. Things like caliper guide pins can become rusty over time. They can also tighten, needing lubricant to ensure proper movement once again. A reputable mechanic will ensure every piece in the braking system is operational and working well before driving away.

Slotted or drilled rotors

Improvements are made continually in the world of automotive. With technological advances come better ways to maintain your vehicle. Are you running with the best brake pads and rotors for your car and the way you drive?

Rotors come in slotted and drilled format. While slotted rotors don’t improve heat transfer, they can enhance brake output by removing dust and debris that can sometimes become stuck between the pads and rotors. This dust reduces friction force, which prevents the pads and rotors from flush contact. Drilled will give better with normal city driving, while slotted may be better with high performance vehicles.

Your brakes are one of the most important safety systems in your vehicle. Without brakes, you wouldn’t be able to slow down and stop, and keep your car under control.

For a well maintained vehicle, be sure your brakes are in good working condition. And when you get new brakes, break new brakes in properly for a full, long life.

How can we help you keep your car well maintained?

Was The Winter Hard On Your Brakes? Cold Weather Brake Problems

March 10, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Cold weather and Colorado go hand in hand.

While we love skiing, the occasional blizzard, and days off from work and school, sometimes the cold weather can be a bit challenging. Heading out to a car that won’t start can be a bit frustrating. Finding out your brakes aren’t working can be dangerous at best.

Brakes are one of the most critical systems of today’s modern cars. Have you ever noticed changes in how your car brakes on the coldest days of the year? You’re not alone. We are often flooded with calls when the temperatures dip to zero and below.

Cold weather brake problems are different from issues you may experience at other times of the year. While cold weather doesn’t directly impact your brake system the same as a car battery, it can change how your car handles and moves. Being aware of the impact cold weather has on brakes will keep you safe no matter what the thermometer reads when you head out into the world.

Cold weather may impact the brake lines

What keeps your brakes in good working condition is the brake fluid. The freezing point of brake fluid is -40 degrees Fahrenheit, but the freezing point isn’t an all-or-nothing process. Instead, brake fluid starts to congeal the colder it gets. And as the brake fluid thickens, you’ll notice it in the way your car handles.

Was The Winter Hard On Your Brakes? Cold Weather Brake Problems

You might be thinking that the Front Range never sees -40 degrees Fahrenheit temperatures. Yet we do see the temperatures creep well below zero almost every winter season.

If your brake fluid is fresh and in top shape, it will continue to work fine as the temperatures drop. But if you don’t keep your brakes well maintained, that could be a problem.

Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. Even though the braking system is mostly airtight, the brake fluid will still come in contact with air and moisture. And when there is moisture in the brake lines, even 32 degrees Fahrenheit can be a problem.

Studies show that up to one in five cars is driving around with water in the brake line. If you haven’t had your vehicle inspected, or asked about having your brake lines flushed in a while, it could present a problem on the next bitter cold day.

Cold weather could actually cause too much heat

Sounds counterintuitive, doesn’t it? How could cold weather cause too much heat?

When ice, snow, and all that comes with winter driving impacts your brake pads, you’ll start applying more pressure to the brake pedal every time you slow down or come to a stop. More pressure means more action in the braking system. And that can cause it to get very hot. Too much heat and it causes the entire braking system to overheat.

While your brake system is designed to withstand intense amounts of heat, everything has a breaking point. As the brake pads wear down, the responsiveness wanes, and you might start hearing funny squealing sounds.

Regular inspections will ensure that every point in your braking system is operating at maximum capacity. You can also change your driving patterns so you’re not riding the brakes. Give yourself plenty of room between you and the car in front of you, so you’re not tapping or slamming on the brakes.

Cold weather can impact the undercarriage

Colorado driving is a consistent challenge of navigating whatever Mother Nature has to dish out. When ice or snow is in the forecast, the city moves into action, adding things like mag-chloride to the streets, and sanding and adding de-icer to slippery spots to help keep you safe.

All of that takes its toll on your undercarriage.

It builds up in every nook and cranny it can find. All of those chemicals can accelerate rust and corrosion, damaging individual parts and components.

The most obvious signs come in the form of rust. You may see evidence if you perform a visual check. If you don’t clean the chemicals away shortly after they are applied, they can continue to build (and continue to damage) on every part underneath your vehicle. It can impact your braking ability, the way your emergency brake works, cause parts to rattle and fall off, and decrease the functionality of your vehicle.

On those 70 degree days that fall in between storms, it’s a good idea to head to your local car wash and give the undercarriage a good cleaning. Regular inspections are also a good way for allowing a mechanic to take a look underneath and ensure every part is still in good working condition.

Has winter weather impacted your brake system?

March is the snowiest month in Colorado. Here along the Front Range, snow is possible almost every month of the year. And when you take a ride into the mountains, road conditions can change quite rapidly.

One of the most important systems on your vehicle is the brakes. If it’s been a while since you’ve had them checked, now may be the time.

A harsh winter can lead to car problems you might not notice until they show up in a big way. Preventative maintenance is the easiest way to ensure you and your passengers stay safe.

The next time you’re out driving, pay attention to what your car is trying to tell you. Does it squeal, squeak, or bang? Do you sense your brakes take a little longer to engage? Do you notice a funny smell, or see potential problems as you walk around your car? Warning signs are there for a reason. They’re designed to give you a chance to bring your car in before bigger problems arise.

Whether you head to the hills for ski weekends, or simply drive to work every day, the Colorado winters can do a lot of damage to your vehicle.

Make today the day you fight back against everything this winter dished out. Cold weather can impact your brake system in harmful ways. An inspection will ensure it’s still driving well.

How Long Can You Drive With Worn Brake Pads?

March 4, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

Brake pads are one of the most critical pieces of equipment built into your car. If your brake pads aren’t working, you won’t be able to slow the car to a stop, or keep it under control as you drive.

Worn brake pads won’t handle the way new brake pads do. That’s why manufacturers build in warning signals to alert you to the fact that your brake pads are failing. There’s no mistaking the high pitched squeal brake pads make at the end-of-life when you press down on the brake pedal and the metal of the brake pad connects with the metal of the brake rotor.

You’ll notice it. And so will everyone else around you.

Brake pads last somewhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. Check with your owner’s manual for specifics.

But even with those general guidelines in place, brake pad life changes based on your driving patterns. There are many things you do that will ultimately determine how long your brake pads will last.

What effects brake pad wear

Driving habits

Your daily commute is the biggest indicator of how well your brake pads will handle over time. Are you an aggressive driver? Do you ride the brakes? Do you pounce on the brake pedal reacting to the drivers around you? Is your terrain flat, or do you drive over a variety of steep grades? Do you coast to a stop, or slam on the brakes? Brake pads will wear differently depending on your approach. Brake pads are all about safety – abrupt stops are sometimes necessary. But smoothing out your normal driving patterns will ensure a long life for your brake pads.

How Long Can You Drive With Worn Brake Pads?

Vehicle weight

Cars are different from trucks. A heavier vehicle will require more braking action to come to a complete stop. It also depends on how loaded your vehicle is. Many drivers across Colorado keep items from their active lifestyle inside their vehicles at all times. Bike racks. Cargo toppers. Sports equipment in the back. All of that requires more action to bring the car to a stop. Your brakes will also have more stress if you regularly pull campers or trailers, especially going up and down the mountain. The more stress your brake pads endure, the shorter lifespan they will have.

Driving environment

We have a variety of driving conditions here along the Front Range. Is your driving primarily urban, or do you regularly take dirt roads? Do you live in the city, or high up in the mountains? Steep elevations impact driving differently than living out on the plains. Your brakes will also endure changing weather conditions, sometimes all in the same day. Temperatures rising into the three digits. Ice and snow making hazardous driving conditions. All of that impacts how often you rely on your brakes for slowing and stopping.

Brake materials

Not all brake pads are alike. Brake pads are created from several different compounds to match different driving needs. Harder materials work better when performance is required. Softer materials work better at lower speeds, such as when you primarily drive in city conditions. Steel or metal brake pads are the most common materials, and work well in average driving conditions. Carbon-ceramic brakes last longer than their metal counterparts, but are more expensive and are primarily for better performance. Your vehicle’s manufacturer has recommendations for which brake pads are best for your driving conditions. Or talk with one of our technicians for more information.

What happens if you keep driving on worn brake pads?

Have you reached a point where you know you’ll have to replace your brake pads soon, but you’re trying to get the most life out of them? Several things can happen if you keep driving on worn brake pads.

Your car will need more space to slow and stop

Worn down brake pads won’t be as functional as new brake pads. That means your vehicle will require more surface area to slow and come to a stop. Response time can change rapidly as your brake pads wear, especially if they wear unevenly. If it feels like it takes more force from you stepping on the brake pedal, it’s a good indicator there are problems with your brake pads.

Your car vibrates as you brake

When brake pads work well, you’ll come to a smooth stop. As they wear down, it adds pressure to their ability to slow and stop. Especially if they wear unevenly, you’ll start to notice this in the stopping action. You’ll be able to feel the vibrations throughout the car.

Other parts can be impacted

It’s not just your brake pads that are at risk. The more worn they become, the more at-risk other parts on your vehicle are too. Brake pads are part of an intricate system where if one component is damaged, it can impact many others too. If brake pads wear past the wear mark, they can damage the brake rotors. The metal of the brake pad grinds into the rotors every time you push down on the brake pedal. The heat from this pressure squeezes against the rotor and can warp or crack it over time. If your car needs greater force to come to a stop, this will also impact your tires. Constant slamming on the brakes causes your tires to wear unevenly, wearing down before their estimated lifespan. All of this can add up to more component replacement, making your repair costs rise.

How long can you drive on worn brake pads?

Brake pads are designed to last anywhere from 30,000 to 70,000 miles. How many your car gets will be determined by your day to day driving conditions.

But once you detect your brake pads are no longer working as designed, what happens to the rest of your vehicle largely depends on your actions.

Can you drive on worn brake pads? Sure. For a while. But it will quickly materialize into many other problems, require more repair work, and potentially put you and those around you at risk.

Is it time for new brake pads for your vehicle?

What Happens If You Drive With a Bad Brake Caliper?

January 21, 2022 by Denver Express Car Care

When you hop into your car and drive to school or work, you don’t think much about how it operates. You turn the key and go.

Yet if you stop to think about each system, chances are you’d push the braking system to the top of the list in importance. After all, without the braking system, your car would experience extensive damage pretty quickly, while you may face injury yourself.

How much do you know about the braking system? Brake pads. Rotors. Brake fluid. Calipers. There are several major components that create an effective braking system. If any one piece is damaged or not working correctly,

Understanding brake calipers

While most people understand that pushing on the brake pedals initiates the braking process, they don’t understand a brake caliper’s job. Brake calipers are a crucial part of making your car slow down and come to a stop as you push down on the brake pedal.

A caliper is a component of the disc brake system, which is what most cars have in the front brakes.

What Happens If You Drive With a Bad Brake Caliper?

The brake caliper sits like a clamp on a wheel’s rotor. You can actually see it on most cars if you glance through the spokes on your wheel. The caliper houses the brake pads and pistons. Its main purpose is to clamp down on the rotor, creating friction with the brake rotors.

When you press down on the brake pedal, brake fluid creates pressure, causing the piston to move against the brake pad, which in turn pushes it against the brake rotor. The more pressure you put on the brake pedal, the more friction between the pads and rotors. Until your vehicle comes to a complete stop.

The brake caliper sits inside the wheel, and is connected to the master cylinder through a series of tubes, hoses and valves. These connections push brake fluid through the system to make it work. If any piece or component in this system isn’t operating well, it can greatly impact the braking process. And that can put you and the people around you in danger.

What happens if you drive on a bad brake caliper?

If you drive with a bad brake caliper, you’re risking the entire braking system not operating as it should.

The caliper houses the brake pads and pistons. A stuck caliper means the brake pad will not completely pull away from the brake rotor. A part of the brake pad will have constant pressure against the rotor while you drive. Which also means part of the braking system will be engaged all the time.

This can add stress to the entire braking system. It can also add stress to the transmission, which can cause failure earlier.

At a minimum, it will cause your brake pad to wear down prematurely. This means you’ll be replacing your brake pads more frequently, and putting yourself at risk if it doesn’t engage properly when you step on the brake pedal.

As soon as you notice a problem, fixing it is your best solution.

When is it time to replace brake calipers?

While you might not notice a problem right away, eventually you’ll start to notice your brakes aren’t working the way they should. A bad caliper can cause a variety of warning signs, signaling to you a potential problem.

Pulling to the right or left – one of the biggest warning signs is a vehicle that doesn’t drive straight. As you’re driving down the road, does your vehicle pull to the right or left? As you’re braking, do you notice the pull get more prominent? If one of the calipers is bad, it’ll impact the connection between the brake pad and the rotor, causing your vehicle’s stopping function to be compromised.

Heat coming off the wheel – as you can imagine, when the brake pad connects with the rotor, it creates a lot of friction. This friction gives off tremendous heat. Under normal driving conditions, this heat dissipates quickly. But if the connection is constant, the heat continues to grow. If you suspect a stuck caliper, stop the vehicle and turn off the engine. Place your hand near the wheel without touching it. Can you feel more heat than the other wheels? This may be a sign of a stuck caliper. Bring it in for an inspection right away.

Dirty brake pads – imagine all the wear and tear your brake pads see as you drive. From ice and snow, to the one-hundred degree days in the summer months, your brake pads deal with a lot of dirt and debris kicked up from the road as you drive. Sometimes that dirt can build up on your brake pads, causing the caliper to stick. A mechanic may be able to clean them and get them working once again. If they are worn, you can replace the brake pads before they cause any more problems.

Brake hose problems – the braking system contains multiple parts to remain in good working condition. If the brake hose wears out, it won’t deliver brake fluid properly to the various parts. Without brake fluid, the master cylinder won’t be able to control the brake caliper movement. This can be assessed by a mechanic, and a brake hose replacement may be necessary.

The best way to keep your calipers in good working condition is to ensure your brake pads are replaced and the brake fluid is topped off. Brake pads are the most frequently part replaced on the braking system, with most brake pads being replaced every 10,000 to 20,000 miles.

Tracking your maintenance items can alert you to potential problems before they exist. Are your brake pads nearing your vehicle’s suggested guidelines? Are you pushing the 20,000 mile marker? It may be time to schedule an inspection with one of our mechanics. We can evaluate the entire system, and ensure your brakes are safe and ready to work every time you drive.