Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

This Is How You Tell If Your Brake Calipers Need Replacement or Repair

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The braking system is one of the most important systems on your vehicle. While you might be familiar with brake pads and brake fluid, brake calipers are a little more obscure. What are they? What do they do? And how do you maintain them throughout the life of your car? 

What are brake calipers?

Owning a car means performing regular maintenance. For your braking system, the most often parts to be replaced include the brake pads. 

Manufacturers recommend replacing brake pads every 10,000 to 20,000 miles. When it comes to the brake rotors, you have a bit longer. Rotors should be replaced every 60,000 to 70,000 miles to ensure your braking system remains in great shape. While not as common as motor oil, your brake fluid should still be replaced every four to five years. If you haven’t read through your owner’s manual, it’s a good thing to keep on hand. 

Brake calipers also need replacing over time. Through wear and tear, they lose their ability to clamp down and relax the brake pads as you apply and release pressure. 

A brake caliper is a part of the disc brake system, which is what most vehicles have on their front brakes. You can see it sitting on your wheel if you look through the spokes. The brake caliper houses the brake pads and pistons. Its sole job is to slow the car’s wheels as you press down on the brake pedal, to create friction against the brake rotors. 

Inside the caliper, a powerful piston uses pressure from hydraulic fluid to press the brake pads against the brake rotor. When working properly, the calipers move effortlessly based on the amount of pressure from the brake pedal. 

This Is How You Tell If Your Brake Calipers Need Replacement or Repair

When something in the system breaks, wears down, or stops altogether, that’s when you have a problem. 

Brake caliper alerts – how to know when you have a problem

Like other systems on your vehicle, the braking system has all kinds of warning signals to alert you when things aren’t working correctly. 

Most vehicles have sensors to art you to braking problems. The brake light on your dashboard will illuminate when the sensors detect something is wrong within the system. 

The brake light could trigger if you’re low on brake fluid, or the pressure isn’t within set guidelines. It can also alert you to brake pads wearing down if the car is equipped with pad sensors. The dashboard light is designed to give you plenty of time to set up a service visit and fix the problem before it escalates. 

Unfortunately, problems with the brake calipers can be a little more challenging to detect. 

Where’s the brake caliper problem?

There are several ways you can identify and prevent further brake caliper breakdown. 

Noises, smells, and feelings

Driving is often one of those mindless tasks you perform on autopilot. But it is a good idea to stay alert and pay attention to what your car is trying to tell you. The first problem with any system is often identified through one of your senses. 

Does your car drive differently? A malfunctioning caliper can cause your vehicle to pull to one side as you drive. This is due to an unbalanced braking system. Because one caliper doesn’t provide pressure in the same manner as the other side, you’ll notice your car lurching forward, or pulling to one side as you slow and stop. 

You may also hear a squealing or grinding sound. This happens when brake pads run thin, and can’t connect with the rotors efficiently. Is it the brake pad, or is it a caliper malfunctioning that caused it to wear down before its time? If you’re nearing the lifespan of your brake pads, it may be the problem. But if you still have life left on them, it may be worth further investigation. 

Too much pressure on the braking system can also ramp up the heat within the system. If you notice a burning chemical smell near one of the front wheels, it may be a sign of overheating from the brake pads and the bonding agent. 

Do a visual inspection

If you’ve ever boarded a plane early, and watched outside the window, chances are you’ve seen the pilot walk around doing a visual inspection. Why? He’s in charge of the plane, keeping the passengers safe, and the plane in good working condition. It’s up to him to decide if it’s okay to fly, and if he’s comfortable with the mechanics and technology he’s been given. 

Driving works similarly, though most of us rarely take a walk around our vehicles before jumping in behind the wheel each time we drive. But there is something to learn from a pilot – it’s a good idea to do a visual check from time to time. Do you notice tire tread wearing unevenly? Is there liquid accumulating near the caliper or the wheel? Keep an eye on anything that looks suspicious, and bring it in for inspection at your earliest convenience. 

Proper maintenance means prevention

Luckily, it won’t take much time out of your day to ensure your vehicle is working well. With an occasional visual inspection, and a moment or two paying attention to what your car is trying to tell you, you’ll be able to drive securely with the knowledge that everything is working well. 

Bring in your car for regular motor oil changes. Ensure your tires are properly inflated, and your wheels are properly balanced. 

Let a mechanic run through a checklist to ensure everything is working well. You can schedule this at the start of each season. Or if you’re heading out on the open road. It’s a great way to keep your security in check to ensure something bigger doesn’t happen. 

Braking problems? It might be caliper issues

Your brake calipers are designed to last 100,000 miles or more. They aren’t a component that needs to be replaced often. 

Being aware of potential signs of a problem will ensure your braking system continues to work well. It’s the best way to keep your passengers safe, and your vehicle operating well. 

When was the last time you had your braking system inspected?  

Simple Ways To Determine If Your Brakes Have Problems

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Driving a car is an automatic function of our lives. Within weeks of purchasing it, we adjust to its sounds, noises, and movements. We expect it to work … until it doesn’t. 

The more aware you are of the sounds, noises, and movements, the greater chance you have of noticing when problems occur. Solving the issue before it escalates can save you time, energy, and money. It may also save your life. 

Your brake system is one of the most vital systems on your car. If your brakes fail, it can put you in a precarious situation. Luckily, your brake system has warning signs that potential problems are occurring. If you notice these early, you can fix the problem before it escalates. What should you watch for?

Watch for the brake light on your dashboard

We see it quite frequently where a driver brings their vehicle in with several dashboard icons lit. These sensors go off for a reason; don’t ignore them. They are providing you with ample warning that your vehicle no longer meets manufacturer’s guidelines. 

If the brake light indicator appears on the dashboard, it’s providing you with a warning that it’s either time for a routine maintenance check, or there’s a problem within the system. An illuminated brake light could signify that your vehicle has low levels of brake fluid. If this is left unchecked for too long, it could lead to serious braking issues. Low fluid impacts stopping distance, and could impact how the brake pads wear. 

Simple Ways To Determine If Your Brakes Have Problems

Schedule your appointment soon to avoid bigger problems. 

Listen for squealing or squeaking noises

Cars make a lot of noise throughout your drive. You can easily pick up on noises as they change over time if you stay fully aware. New noises coming from your brakes aren’t always a bad thing, but they might be indicators of a potential problem. 

How long do they last? Do you hear the noise over and over again? Sometimes a rock or debris can impact sound. But as it leaves the system, your car should return to normal.  

Brake pads are built with wear indicators that produce a squealing noise. This high-pitched sound will continue to build the more you drive. This ensures you can’t ignore it. You’ll notice it every time you step on the brakes. 

Watch for problems with anti-lock brakes

Most modern day cars come with anti-lock braking systems that offer a key safety component to help your drive. ABS is designed to help prevent your brakes from locking up during emergency situations. It also helps your tires from losing traction on icy or slippery roads when you step on the brakes. 

In most cases, if your anti-lock brakes have a problem, you’ll see an icon on your dashboard illuminate. Problems can range from a damaged ABS tone ring to a faulty speed sensor. The best way to determine where the problem lies is to bring it in for a diagnostic test to see what’s triggering the warning light. 

Notice brakes get spongy to the touch

When you first get your vehicle, your brakes respond immediately to your touch. As brakes wear down, it takes more pressure to achieve the same results. As you press down on the brake pedal, it moves closer to the floor, and it takes on a somewhat spongy feel. Causes can include:

  • Air in the brake line. This is often caused by a brake fluid leak or if the brake fluid is low. 
  • Damage to the brake line. If you’ve been in a car crash, or your car was damaged in any way, it could have impacted the brake line. Age can also impact it, allowing the line to become brittle, cracked, or rusted out 
  • Low brake fluid. If there is a leak in the system, brake fluid might not be at the recommended level. 
  • Master cylinder issues. The master cylinder controls brake fluid levels. If it isn’t working correctly, it isn’t sending brake fluid in the quantity needed. It will be more difficult to brake as you’re driving. 

You notice a shake or vibration when steering

If the steering wheel shakes or vibrates when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Common problems include:

  • Worn brake pads. Any time the brake pads reach end of life, it can impact the way your car drives. When the pads can no longer grip the rotors as intended, it can cause the steering wheel to shake. 
  • Warped rotors. When applying the brakes, the brake pads connect with the rotors to stop the wheels from spinning. Over time, the rotor can wear down. If it does so unevenly, it can impact the brake friction when you apply the brakes. This is why it’s important to fix the brake pads quickly, as they are less expensive and easier to repair than the rotor.  

You notice a burning smell

If the brakes get too hot, they can leave off a sharp, chemical odor. If you notice this coming back from a day of skiing, for example, it’s best to pull over and let your brakes cool before driving again. Double check the parking brake to ensure it’s not engaged. If there’s smoke coming from the wheel, it may be a caliper that is malfunctioning. If you aren’t sure, your safest bet is to have your car towed. It keeps you safe and ensures further damage isn’t caused to your brake system. 

Your car pulls to the left or right 

While this can be caused by a variety of problems, it might be from a problem with your brake system. If it’s caused by the front brakes, one brake may be working while the other is not. That will cause your car to handle differently as you apply the brake, with your car moving right or left depending on which brake isn’t working. Any time you notice your car not driving in a straight line, it’s time to have an inspection to ensure it’s working correctly. 

Don’t ignore problems with your brakes

Even the smallest issues can cause your brakes to fail. Any warning sign is designed to give you a chance to bring your car in for inspection before you have more serious problems. 

Schedule your appointment today. 

How To Check and Inspect Your Brake Pads to Avoid Brake Failure

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The braking system on your car is probably something you don’t think much about. You get in. You drive. And when you press down on the brake pedal, you slow down and eventually come to a stop. 

What if they didn’t work? 

Like everything on your vehicle, brakes have a limited lifespan. The various components wear down a little each time you use them, and eventually become so worn they need repair or replacement. 

How big a risk is brake failure?

Why brakes fail

When you press down on your brake pedal, that pressure is transferred into the brake lines. Brake fluid transmits that pressure to the brakes themselves, which ultimately causes you to slow down and come to a stop. 

There are two different kinds of brakes on vehicles today: drum and disc. In both, the pressure from the brake lines pushes the drum or disk against the wheel itself to slow it down. 

Brakes can fail from a variety of events, but in general, can be lumped into two categories. 

A leaky brake line – this is when a leak forms somewhere in the brake line. Brake fluid slowly drains from the system until there isn’t enough left to move pressure from the brake pedal to the tires. 

Worn out disc or drum – this is when one or more parts to the brake system itself wear out. If brake pads, shoes, rotors, or any other part of the drum or disc brake system wear down enough to prevent proper friction on the wheels to stop them, you’re at risk. 

Brake failure – quick or slow?

The good news is that car manufacturers have built a series of safety features into every system on your vehicle, to alert you of potentially dangerous situations long before they occur. As problems arise within the braking system, you’ll be alerted by a change in the way your brakes handle, a noise when you press on the brake pedal, or even a change in the way your car handles. If you step on the brake pedal and it feels spongy or pulls to one side, it’s a sign you have a problem with the brakes. Schedule an appointment with one of our mechanics as soon as possible to avoid further damage and increased risk. 

How To Check and Inspect Your Brake Pads to Avoid Brake Failure

Brake pads – the most common problem

While multiple things can potentially go wrong within your braking system, in most cases, you’ll replace the brake pads more frequently than any other part of the system. 

Brake pads will last around 40,000 miles on average, while brake rotors can last as much as three times as long. Why? Brake pads are responsible for bringing your car to a stop. When you press down on the brake pedal, it’s the brake pad that presses up against the rotor, slowing down the wheel in the process. Eventually, this material will wear down, leaving only the metal baking in place. 

While 40,000 is a rough estimate, many things can alter how many miles you’ll receive on each set of brake pads you install. 

  • Do you drive mostly on the highway or in town?
  • Do you frequently ride the brakes?
  • Are you an aggressive driver, often pouncing on the brake pedal?
  • Who manufactured your brake pads?

Brake pads are made of frictional material bonded to a metal backing plate. Brake pads are typically made from one of three different materials:

Organic – most vehicles on the road today use organic brake pads. They are also known as NAO pads, or non-asbestos organic pads. These pads are made of materials such as carbon, fiber, glass, rubber, and sometimes Kevlar mixed with resins to help bond it all together. While organic pads are usually the least expensive, they also wear down faster than the other types of pads. Still, they are a good choice for average daily driving conditions. 

Semi-metallic –  when you purchased your vehicle, if it didn’t come with organic brake pads, there’s a good chance semi-metallic brake pads were installed instead. These are often a popular choice on trucks or larger SUVs. Semi-metallic brake pads are created from metal shavings such as copper, steel, brass, and possibly graphite. They are bound together by resin. They are best suited for more rigorous driving conditions and heavy-duty use. 

Ceramic – want a brake pad somewhere in between, that offers performance as well as a comfortable ride? Ceramic brake pads may be the way to go. Ceramic brake pads are made from hard, ceramic fibers. That gives them the longest lifespan of the three types, and also the quietest ride. They handle heat very well, but instead of absorbing heat like the other brake pads, it sends it out and impacts other parts of the braking system. These are high-performance parts that can enhance your drive. 

Do a brake check and stay safe

While you drive, you should monitor the way your car handles. 

Before you get into your car, do a visual inspection occasionally to ensure your brakes are in good working condition. Do so with your car parked safely and the ignition off. 

Look at the wheels. Do you notice brake dust on the wheel? How much? If you notice it increasing over time, it’s something you should bring up on your next visit. 

On some cars, you can also see the brake pad. Notice its thickness. If it seems thin, ¼ inch or less, it may be time for replacement. Monitor this and speak with one of our mechanics on the safety of your braking system. 

When you start the car and drive, listen to your brakes. Brake pads are designed with a marker that makes noise when they need to be changed. It will get louder over time, as the material on the brake pads continues to wear. 

You should also pay attention to how your vehicle drives. You can often feel changes in the way the brake pedal moves and connects with the braking system. 

Your car is also built with a warning system. If the brake warning light comes on at any time, have it checked sooner rather than later. 

Are your brakes in good working condition?

Making Your Brakes Last

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As a driver, you know some parts wear out sooner than others. You have to get an oil change every few thousand miles. Tires need to be replaced when they start to wear down. And brakes, they’re important too. 

Yet things are expensive these days. Money only stretches so far. If you’ve ever put off a maintenance item because something else takes precedence, you’ve pushed the limits of stretching the workability of a part. 

Brakes are an integral part of every car. Imagine sailing down I-70 without brakes. That would be more than a thrill ride as you try to keep control around every corner. But it doesn’t take a steep hill to throw you into a dangerous situation. Even approaching a stoplight in town can be a scary situation if you tap on the brake pedal and nothing happens. 

Having an efficient braking system will ensure your safety in every situation. How do you balance that with the desire to make your brakes last as long as possible? 

First, realize your braking system is only designed to last for so long. It will wear out over time. While you often hear brake pads are the first to go, it isn’t always the case. The brake system is made up of many different parts, and depending on how it wears down, a variety of things can go wrong over time. 

Overall, brakes will start to lose their effectiveness around 25,000 miles. Check your owner’s manual for more information, as your manufacturer has guidelines for every system they build. 

You can’t make your brakes last forever, but there are things you can do to extend their life. Here’s what you can do. 

Smart driving 

There are two types of drivers: offensive and defensive. When you slow down, stop being in a rush to get from place to place, you tend not to put as much stress on your vehicle. You can watch the traffic around you and assess what’s happening before you get into situations that require quick decisions. You can drive without putting excessive strain on your brake system. 

Making Your Brakes Last

Stomping on the brakes is never a good thing. It requires reflexive decisions, and makes you more likely to spin out of control. Leave space between you and the car in front of you no matter if you’re on a drive into the mountains, or are heading to the grocery store in your own neighborhood. This allows you to brake softly, putting less strain on your entire braking system. 

It’s also important to use your brakes fully engaged. Have you ever stopped at a light, and pulled up on the brakes allowing the wheels to inch forward? That’s known as wheel creep, which also increases wear on the braking system. Are you a two-footed driver? Do you keep one actively on the gas pedal while the other is on the brakes? That also puts excessive wear on the brake system. Use the brakes as intended, and they will last longer and provide more service for as long as you own your vehicle. 

Keeping your vehicle well maintained

When was the last time you washed your car? When was the last time you cleaned it thoroughly, inside and out? Are there boxes and bags of things in your trunk? Do you carry around excess weight that’s only adding to the heaviness of your car? Take out the sports equipment, the home maintenance projects, and the boxes left over from school. If it doesn’t belong in your vehicle for day to day travel, take it out. 

That’s because a heavier vehicle takes more braking power to control. Every vehicle was designed with specific guidelines in place. Manufacturers created the brake system to fully control the vehicle and the passengers it carries. When you start adding in ski equipment, a toolbox, parts from the hardware store – items that can add tens, if not hundreds of pounds of extra weight – it adds strain on the movement of the vehicle. 

It’s not just your brakes that will thank you. Excessive weight also strains tires and gas mileage too, making you spend more every day you drive your car. 

Brake system flush

When you press down on the brake pedal, it’s the job of brake fluid to allow your braking system to fully function. Brake fluid moves through the braking line, which causes the brake pads to compress against the rotors, which slows and stops your car. 

Like other fluids that flow through your car to make it operate efficiently, brake fluid will only last for so long. Eventually, it wears down, dirt, air, particles, and other contaminants infiltrate the fluid, and make it sluggish as it moves through the system. Ever tap on the brake pedal and have it feel spongy, non-responsive? That could be contaminated brake fluid in the line. 

A brake system flush rids the line of fluid and moisture and replaces it with clean brake fluid. A flush ensures you’ll have optimal performance from your braking system overall. It keeps all components of the brake system working their best. While the industry average is right around 25,000 miles, it’s dependent on the make and model of your vehicle. Not sure? We have access to all vehicle guidelines and can help determine the right maintenance schedule for your vehicle. 

Regular maintenance

As a car owner, you know certain aspects of car maintenance are important. You fill it up with gas regularly. You replace the tires. You get an oil change every 3,000 miles. 

While it might seem like a good way to save money, coupon shopping will not help you properly maintain your car. When you find coupons for every maintenance item you need completed, chances are you’re stretching out the timeframe of when it’s best to make changes to your vehicle. You notice a problem, and look for the best way to save money. You ignore the problem until it’s too big to ignore. 

By using a service station regularly for all of your vehicle’s needs, it’s similar to going to the same doctor for your wellness checkups, so they understand what to watch for and what to suggest. A mechanic gets to know your vehicle, makes notes of what to watch for, and can make suggestions to increase the longevity of each system within your vehicle. 

There are often problems only a practiced eye will notice. We work with different vehicles every day, and have the knowledge and skill to help you make the most of every part, every system within your car. 

If You Drive On Worn Brakes …

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Imagine coming home after a day of skiing. You’re tired. Traffic is heavy. You’re doing your best to keep your eyes on the road. Suddenly, someone cuts in front of you. You slam on the brakes. Nothing happens …

Or maybe you’re driving through the neighborhood. Your mind is on a problem at work, stopping by the grocery store on the way home, your plans for the weekend. A ball rolls in front of you. A child runs out from behind a car. You stomp on the brake pedal. Nothing happens …

Wild stories? Not in the least. As you read each of them, you probably felt just how real each of them could be. 

At the bottom of each is a problem with the car. When you drive on worn brakes, you might lose control. You might not be able to control your vehicle as intended. And in each of the cases mentioned above, it can lead to scary, disastrous results. 

Driving on worn brakes will lead to expensive repair bills and replacement of other car components. Brake pads are crucial to the brake system, but they aren’t the only part. When you allow one part to deteriorate, it leads to damage in other parts of the car. Brake pads may not be the only part that can impact your drive, but they are the most noticeable as they begin to wear down. 

How can you tell if your brake pads are worn?

With all major components and systems of your car, there are built in warning systems to alert you to potential problems before they occur. Watch for these things, sure signs your brakes are worn down. 

what-if-youre-stressed-about-car-repairs

Noise – Brake pads have a built in noise indicator to alert you to when the pad is wearing down. You can’t ignore the screeching sound worn brake pads make. This isn’t something that’ll go away. It continues to get worse the more worn the brake pads become. It does give you ample time to connect with your mechanic and get your car in for servicing. 

Vibrations – Sometimes you can feel the problem. If damage to the brake pads has impacted the rotors, you’ll feel a slight vibration every time you press down on the brake pedal. Full connection between the various components isn’t taking place, and you’re at risk of not being able to stop effectively when pressing down on the brakes. 

Soft pedal – Instead of feeling a vibration when you press down on the brake pedal, it might take more pressure to accomplish the same brake function. People often define worn down brakes as acting like a sponge – there’s little resistance as you apply pressure to the brake pedal. That lack of tension is a sign your brakes need replacing. 

Slow response – Over time, your brake system might not respond in the same manner as it did when you first purchased your vehicle. Pay attention to the changes. If you notice you’re having to push down farther on the brake pedal, it takes you longer to come to a complete stop at a traffic light, or you have narrow misses because of a longer stopping range, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for inspection. 

What happens when you drive on worn brakes

You’ve determined your brake pads are worn. You know you have a problem that needs to be fixed. But you have places to go, things to do. Maybe next week …

What can happen if you continue to drive on worn brakes? 

You might damage the brake rotors and calipers

While brake pads might be the most common repair item on a vehicle’s brake system, there are many other components that make it function. If your brake pads continue to wear down, they will eventually impact other components of your vehicle. 

As the brake pads wear past the wear mark, they may not have enough material left to get the job done. That can impact the brake rotors, damaging them as well. As you brake, the brake pads press against the brake rotors to slow and stop your car. If the pads are excessively worn, this produces a metal on metal grind, which damages the rotors. 

This can also cause excessive heat, especially if you’re driving long distances or applying your brakes more than usual, such as coming down from the mountains. Worn pads squeezing the rotor can also warp and crack it. Brake rotors are designed to last longer than brake pads, but not if they are damaged in the process. 

It can wear down your tires

Another component that can be impacted by worn down brakes are your tires. 

As you drive on worn out brake pads, it takes more energy to bring your vehicle to a stop. That means you’re more likely to slam on the brakes more frequently as you avoid potentially harmful situations. 

Excessive braking will cause your tires to wear out faster due to the higher impact of jolting to a stop. They may need more balancing, or possibly have uneven tire wear. 

Don’t ignore potential brake problems

Having your brakes checked regularly should be considered routine maintenance. Don’t ignore them. If you put off a warning sign today, it will lead to further damage and higher repair bills in the near future. 

Your brakes are one of the most important safety components of your vehicle. Have a professional check it out and repair it as quickly as possible at the first sign of a brake issue. 

With today’s vehicles, technology can alert you to problems long before they grow. If you notice the brake light on your dashboard illuminate, use that as an indicator it’s time to make an appointment. 

You should also pay attention to your drive. Even if you don’t notice a vibration in your brake pedal, or a noise when you step on the brake pedal, as a regular driver, you can feel when something is wrong. 

If your car pulls to one side or the other as you brake, it’s an indication of a problem. If you hear a strange sound, smell an out of the ordinary odor, or see fluid underneath your vehicle as you pull away, those are all good indicators of an issue with your car. 

Let one of our trained mechanics inspect it and find out what’s wrong. 

We’ll have you on the road again in no time, safely. 

Are You Properly Towing Your Trailer? If Not, It Might Be Impacting Your Brakes and Suspension

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You don’t have to look any further than your local highway to know Coloradans love taking vacations. Trucks and SUVs are towing trailers, heading out into the high country to take advantage of all Colorado has to offer. 

But did you know that towing a trailer has a huge impact on your brakes and suspension? If you aren’t aware of proper towing know-how, you could be putting a lot at risk. Improper towing could damage your car’s brakes, suspension, tires, transmission, and even impact your alignment. Your fun trip to the middle of nowhere could turn into one giant headache if you’re not adequately prepared. 

Are you properly towing your trailer? Are your brakes and suspension at risk? Here are a few questions to keep in mind. 

How much can your vehicle really tow?

You have a truck. You just bought a trailer. What could go wrong?

Quite a lot if the two aren’t properly paired. It’s important to understand how much your vehicle can tow before you purchase a trailer. If the trailer is too large for your vehicle, it can damage the suspension, transmission, even your engine. 

Your vehicle comes with a towing capacity. The conventional towing capacity is regarded as how much it can pull with a frame-mounted hitch. Fifth wheel towing capacity would be mounted directly in the bed of your truck. Check with the owner’s manual to find out how much weight your vehicle can handle. This is the maximum weight it can pull without damaging the vehicle. Keep in mind that if you add other items to the trailer after you purchase it, it will add to the weight capacity. Make sure you stay within limits to ensure safety precautions. 

Do you have the proper equipment?

Have you changed vehicles? Upgraded the trailer? Have a different combination than what you started with years before? 

Are You Properly Towing Your Trailer

Not all equipment works in every situation. Towing requires four main pieces of equipment: a hitch, a receiver, a drawbar, and a hitch ball. Each of these parts work together to keep your vehicle and your trailer properly connected. 

The hitch attaches directly to your vehicle and provides the connection between the vehicle and the trailer. A hitch class 1 tows up to 2,000 pounds, class 2 up to 3,500 pounds, class 3 up to 8,000 pounds, and class ⅘ up to 18,000 pounds. Hitches must be married up to the right vehicle to ensure proper towing capacity. 

The receiver is the base for all other elements, and is appropriately sized depending on the different load sizes. 

The drawbar is a tube that threads between the receiver and the hitch ball. You can buy an adjustable height to ensure you create a level plane no matter what load you’re towing. 

The hitch ball comes in multiple sizes and is designed for varying amounts of weight. 

These items are not interchangeable. You have to have the proper equipment as you move from towing your boat, to your trailer, to a mini-camper. Always ensure you have the proper equipment to remain safe at all times. 

Have you thought about all of the details? 

You have a truck or an SUV. You’ve purchased a new trailer. You’re about to head out on the open road. What could go wrong? 

A lot if you’re not diligent about the details. Safety checks are mandatory to ensure your vehicle stays safe. 

When you’re towing, you should ensure you have trailer lights to assure other drivers know what you’re doing. Do they operate correctly? Do they mimic your taillights and respond correctly to what you signal from your vehicle? 

Have you used extra support chains to provide additional support connecting your vehicle to the trailer? This can prevent your trailer from careening into another vehicle if something should go wrong with the hitch. 

Have you secured your load? Are all doors shut and properly locked? Is everything secured so it won’t fly out when you hit highway speeds? 

Have you checked the laws for where you’re going? Different states have different rules. If you are spending time in a location, you may be required to match those laws with your own setup. Paying attention before you leave can prevent headaches down the road. 

Check your tires regularly – all of them. If they aren’t properly inflated and in good working condition, they can become a danger out on the open road. This includes the trailer tires. A check up before you leave will ensure you don’t have tire troubles later. Look for worn spots, improper wheel alignment, or tires that simply aren’t up for the job you’re about to undertake. 

Is it time to invest in additional performance options? 

Chances are if you’re investing in a vehicle and trailer, this will be more than a one-time event. Think clearly about your long-term expectations, and find performance options that can help you stay safer. 

For example, you can find a lot of additional parts that can make a difference in the way your vehicle moves and operates. How about a set of helper springs that help absorb the shock as your vehicle moves. They can assist with adding extra support to the springs and shocks, cushioning the action with every bump you hit in the road. 

Or maybe an enhanced exhaust system to help release back pressure from the engine. This can help the engine breathe easier, which can be important especially if you’re heading into the Rocky Mountains. 

No matter what you decide, the key to staying safe is to ensure they are all properly maintained for as long as they are in use. 

Are you ready to go? 

Before you head out on your next great adventure, ensure both your vehicle and trailer are in excellent shape. 

Existing brake problems will only be exacerbated by towing a heavy load. 

Worn tires or improper wheel alignment can spell disaster as you weave around curvy roads. 

And the added weight can quickly impact your suspension, putting you more at risk of collision. 

The best way to prevent all that is through regular maintenance. If you’ll be towing a trailer in the near future, let us know. We’ll check your vehicle out thoroughly to ensure it’s ready for the job. 

And have fun on your next vacation!

Think Twice Before Changing Brake Pads At Home

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We’re all looking for easy ways to save money these days. Everywhere you look, prices seem to be rising. 

If you can take on a few DIY projects at home, why not? 

But some jobs are better left to the experts. Your car’s brake pads may be one of them. If you do a quick search online, you’ll find a ton of sites telling you it’s an easy job. They even provide step by step instructions to help you along. 

Before tackling this project, ask yourself a question: Is saving a few bucks worth it if it adds risk every time I drive my car?

Changing brake pads at home may be an option if you’re well equipped with the needed tools, and have the knowledge to complete the job safely and risk-free. If not, it might be better left to the experts. Here are a few things to think about before you tackle this job. 

Do I have the right tools for the job?

This may seem like an obvious question. You wouldn’t take on a job if you didn’t have the right tools. But it’s easy to start a project without realizing all of the tools you’ll need. Typically, you’ll need:

  • Floor jack
  • Jack stands
  • Brake tools
  • Replacement brake pads
  • Replacement rotors if necessary
  • Brake grease
  • Socket wrench
  • Tire iron
  • Specific instructions for your vehicle make and model

Whew! That’s a lot of tools for this one job. 

This isn’t something you want to sidestep in any way. Today’s vehicles weigh anywhere from 1 to 2 tons. One mistake can cost you everything, so it’s a good thing to put safety at the top of your list. 

Think Twice Before Changing Brake Pads At Home

How complicated can changing the brake pads be?

A lot of savvy drivers have thought this project is easier than it is. But unless you have auto repair experience, it can be a lot more difficult than you think. 

Today’s vehicles aren’t simple; they are sophisticated technology with every piece intricately designed to work together with the parts around them. Not only can a lot of things go wrong if you aren’t familiar with the process, but you can skip over glaring problems that are causing other issues without realizing it. 

If you hear a grinding noise while pressing on the brake pedal, you might assume it’s your brake pads. Yet after analysis, it might be a problem with your rotors. Are you prepared to notice the difference as you pull the brake system apart? 

Depending on the vehicle you drive, you might also have to understand two separate systems. Cars with rear drum brakes maybe a little more complicated due to the additional parts and connections. 

How safe do I want my vehicle to be?

Kind of a trick question, right? Of course, we all want our vehicles to be as safe as possible. It only takes one glance at a crushed vehicle to understand how important safety features are. 

You wouldn’t put your child into the car without a car seat. You wouldn’t want a loved one to ride along without being properly buckled in. 

Do you really want to take the chance that you might not be able to brake properly as you head onto the highway, possibly for a road trip?

Next to seatbelts and airbags, your brakes are one of the most important mechanisms on your vehicle that help protect you in times of need. If your brake pads aren’t installed properly, they won’t be there to do the job they’re meant to do. 

That means they may compromise the safety of your vehicle, putting you and those around you at greater risk. 

What is my time worth?

We all lead busy lives. We all have more on our plates than we can possibly accomplish each day. That’s human nature. 

So why take on jobs that aren’t your specialty? 

Consider this: a highly trained auto technician can easily replace brake pads in 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the make and model. They have a trained eye to watch out for little nuances that add to the safety factor as they are working through the process. If they notice an additional problem, no matter how small it is, they can make adjustments to make your car safer. 

How long would it take you to do the same job?

Would you recognize other problems? 

What if you finished the job, only to realize the brakes still don’t “feel” right? Maybe the brake pedal still goes to the floor when you apply the brakes. Maybe they feel a bit squishy as you apply the brakes. Something is wrong. And now your investment went way up as a technician will have to correct the job you took on. 

What a brake inspection looks like

When it’s time to replace the brake pads on your vehicle, it’s more complicated than pulling the old part off, and putting the new part on. With today’s technology, it involves ensuring the entire system is working well to keep you safe. 

A trained mechanic will provide a thorough, comprehensive inspection of every vehicle that comes in for servicing. They are trained to spot a problem based on a few tell-tale signs, as well as have the know-how for what to look for as they complete the job. It’s a mechanic’s job to ensure that you’ll have total confidence in knowing it was a job well done when you drive away. 

Brake inspection includes checking:

  • Brake pads
  • Calipers
  • Rotors
  • Drums
  • Wheel cylinders
  • Springs
  • Hoses
  • Parking brake cables
  • Fluid
  • Wheel bearings
  • Grease seals
  • Master cylinder fluid

Can you do all that? 

Is it worth your time, knowing a trained mechanic can do the job the right way the first time? 

When it comes to your safety, your car’s brake system is vitally important. Rather than changing your brake pads at home, where you might miss important factors, why not consider relying on a trained mechanic instead. 

Your safety might just depend on it. 

Mountain Driving – Why There’s a Burning Smell Coming From Your Brakes

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Colorado driving brings all kinds of challenges to drivers. Here in Denver, you’ll deal with ice, snow, heatwaves, flooded roads, and sudden drops in temperatures that can have you turning on your air conditioner and heater all in one day. 

One of the greatest challenges comes from mountain driving. You may start out at home in a relatively flat location. Hop on the highway, and in just a couple of hours, you can be climbing thousands of feet, change from dry roads to snow-packed highways, and you’re left navigating it all. 

Whether you’re new to Colorado driving, or have been here for decades, it takes some getting used to. 

A big challenge comes from navigating up and down the mountain. It takes a lot of power getting up some of those hills. It also takes a lot of power to keep your car under control as you drive down.  If you’re driving and you suddenly notice a burning smell from your brakes, what does it mean? You know it’s not good, 

Anytime you smell a burning smell while you’re driving, it’s not good. Of course, it can mean different things. Any change in your vehicle should be brought to a mechanic’s attention as soon as possible to ensure it’s not a serious problem. 

What could a burning smell from the brakes mean? 

When you smell a burning smell coming from your brakes, it can mean a variety of things, depending on what you’re doing at the time you notice it. 

Mountain Driving - Why There’s a Burning Smell Coming From Your Brakes

New brakes

If you’ve just picked up your car where new brakes have been installed, it can be a little disheartening when you notice a burning smell as you tap on the brakes just a few miles from the shop. In this case, the burning smell isn’t a bad thing at all. A slight burning smell coming from new brakes is harmless, meaning the resin coating built into the brake pad is coming off, and the brakes are settling into use. Consider this the break-in period to allow your brake pads to adjust to your vehicle. 

Different brands and types will have a different break-in period. Some might not smell at all, while others have a noticeable odor for an extended period of time. If you’re not sure, give us a call. We can assure you everything will be alright, or if we feel there may be a problem, we’ll recommend you return so we can check everything out. 

Your parking brake may be engaged

We’ve been taught that the parking brake is just for parking, but it actually has a lot more uses than that. The parking brake is part of your overall braking system. When engaged, it presses against the rear brakes with less force than the regular braking pads. It’s a secondary system that was designed as a safety feature in case the braking system failed, yet today it’s primarily used to keep a vehicle in place while parked, especially if you’re on a steep incline. 

To engage a parking brake, you usually have one of four types of parking brakes. 

  • Stick lever – this can be located on the steering column of older models
  • Center lever – located between the two front seats
  • Foot pedal – located to the left of the other pedals
  • Push button – located on the console on newer vehicles

Manufacturers suggest using the parking brake as a safety precaution every time you stop. If you follow these guidelines, sometimes the parking brake feature might not disengage all the way when you release it before you start driving again. If so, this brake function is pressing against the rear brakes, and can cause a slight burning smell. 

Do you notice other problems? Do you hear a squealing or grinding noise? Are you having trouble accelerating? All can point to a problem with the parking brake releasing. 

Brakes are overheating

When you press down on your brake pedal, it engages the brake pads against the rotors, working hard to bring your wheels to a stop. This friction can produce a lot of heat in a short period of time. Aggressive or frequent braking can continually build heat rather than giving the braking system a chance to cool and dissipate some of the heat it’s generated as you drive. Eventually, this can cause the entire system to overheat. 

Now think about what happens when coming home from a day in the mountains. It’s miles of road at steep grades bringing you safely down thousands of feet at a rapid pace. Tapping the brakes to slow, over and over again, continues the process of allowing the brakes to generate heat. Especially as you’re navigating a long line of traffic heading in the same direction. 

In today’s world, most of us no longer use manual transmissions to get where we’re going. We rely on automatic transmissions to do the work for us. Yet even if you drive an automatic, have you noticed a “2” and “1” on your automatic gear shift? It’s built for these conditions. 

Instead of leaving your gears engaged for everyday forward driving, by shifting down to a lower gear, it will take the effort of slowing your vehicle off your braking system, and put it on the power of the engine instead. 

If you’re traveling under 50 mph, you can shift into 2nd gear on the fly, meaning you don’t have to pull over. You’ll hear the engine downshift, and the vehicle will begin to safely slow on its own. You need to use the brakes should be significantly reduced. 

For an exceptionally steep hill, you can further reduce your speed by moving it into 1st gear – as long as you’re traveling 30 mph or less. 

Then eventually move it back into automatic when the steep incline is gone. 

Do you notice a burning smell coming from your brakes? Try one of these three techniques and keep a watchful eye out to see if further problems develop. If they do, we’re only a phone call away. Schedule your appointment today, and we’ll ensure your brakes will keep you safe for as long as you own your vehicle. 

Here’s What Can Happen If You Drive With Worn Brakes

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What’s one of the most important systems on your vehicle? While it’s easy to make a case for several, moving the brake system towards the top of the list is apparent. Imagine sailing down the highway after a day of skiing, only to find your brakes no longer work. That would be a scary experience at best. 

Yet a lot can happen to the brake system between being brand new and complete failure. Worn brakes occur after a lot of miles put on your car. It happens over time. And as the miles add up, your brakes deteriorate, they don’t work quite the way they do when they were new. 

They also start providing telltale signs they are wearing down. Notice the warning signs and you can fix your brakes long before they present you with a problem. 

Understanding the brake system

Before we get into the many ways you’ll start to notice worn brakes, it’s important to understand how a car’s brake system works. 

If you’ve ever ridden a bicycle, you have a basic understanding of how a brake system works. A bike has two wheels, with a brake attached to both. To control the speed, you press down on a hand brake, which applies pressure to each wheel and slows it down. The harder you push, the more force is used until eventually, the bike comes to a complete stop. 

The same applies to a vehicle, using four wheels instead. Cars have brakes on all four wheels, which is operated through a hydraulic system to make it easy to stop without a lot of work on your part. 

Here’s What Can Happen If You Drive With Worn Brakes

When your foot pushes down on the brake pedal, hydraulic force is sent into the system to start the braking process. A piston moves into a cylinder and squeezes hydraulic fluid  into the braking system. It moves through a series of brake lines and hoses to lubricate and produce a reaction. Pressure is transmitted to all four brake lines, which forces friction between the brake rotors and brake pads. As this pressure continues, it slows the vehicle until it eventually comes to a full stop. 

If any piece of this process starts to wear, it impacts the drive of your car. 

Of course, some are more noticeable than others. What can happen if you continue to drive with worn brakes? 

You can experience unpleasant sounds and smells

There’s no ignoring worn brakes. That’s by design. One of the most common repairs within the brake system is to replace worn out brake pads. Manufacturers design brake pads with a warning signal built in. As you get towards the end of the brake pad, metal is revealed which, when it connects with the brake rotor, will create a loud squealing sound. 

You might also notice a burning smell. If your brakes are new, that burning smell might simply be the resin used in production burning away as the brakes settle in. But if you’ve been driving for a while and you start to notice a burning smell, it can be from other complications. Brake fluid leaking can settle onto the brake pads, and when it’s heated from the friction of stopping, it can produce a burning smell. This is where it pays to know your car well. 

You can feel your car vibrate as you brake

When your vehicle is working properly, every process works smoothly. When you tap on the brakes, your vehicle slows until eventually coming to a stop. 

But when your brake pads have excessive wear or are damaged in any way, they don’t make a solid connection with the rotors. And without a solid connection, it can trigger an on-off connection, meaning you’ll feel a vibration as it works its way up through the system. 

If the car shakes or you feel vibrations through the steering wheel as you apply the brakes, and it stops as you take your foot back off the brake pedal, there’s a good chance it’s time to have your brakes serviced. 

You notice it takes longer for your car to come to a complete stop

Remember when your brakes were new? You tapped on the brake pedal and it felt like your car could stop on a dime? 

Over the years, you have to apply more pressure to get the same reaction. It’s essential to pay attention to response time. How much give is there as you press on the brake pedal? Do you feel your vehicle slowing with a tap, or are you having to press it all the way down? 

If you don’t have as much control through pushing on the brake pedal, it can slow your reaction time, putting you in more danger. If they don’t engage or disengage, the pads aren’t gripping properly or uniformly, which impacts how well you control your car. This can put you in a variety of dangerous positions, especially if you add inclement weather into the mix too. 

You notice your tires wearing down

Your tires are one of the most important parts of the brake system. They are what connects your vehicle to the road. Without the proper tire pressure and tread levels, they won’t have gripping power. And that can mean putting you at risk as you drive. 

You can do a few things to check your tires. Check the tire pressure at least once a month, more as we move through heatwaves and cold spells. If your car doesn’t have a tire pressure gauge built in, you can check it regularly at your local service station. 

You should also do a visual test regularly. Before getting in and driving away, walk around your vehicle and inspect your tires. Is one flatter than the others? Do you see any signs of damage? The faster you take action on potential problems, the better chance you have of fixing it before it needs full replacement. 

Keep an eye on tread levels as well. You can do this easily with a penny test. Place a penny with Lincoln’s head upside down and facing you into the tread of the shallowest part of the tire. If you can see the top of his head, your tires have worn down and need to be replaced. 

Can you drive on worn brakes? You do so every day. But when they reach a point of putting you, your passengers, and others around you at risk, it’s time to take action. 

Drum Brakes

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Brakes that work properly are essential to your safety.  You want to carefully maintain your brakes.  In vehicles that are equipped with drum brakes, the brake components are housed inside a drum that rotates with the wheel.  When you step on the brake pedal, brake shoes push out against the inside of the drum, slowing the wheel.

Brake shoes will wear away with use from rubbing on the drum as you brake.  When it’s time to replace brake shoes, it’s a straight-forward repair.

If you hear squealing or grinding when you are braking, have your service adviser check them out.  He’ll have a technician perform a thorough brake inspection to see what needs to be done.  He’ll check for signs of brake problems and go over other brake components to see that they’re working properly.

He can tell you it it’s time to replace the shoes or if there are other issues with your drum brakes that should be addressed.  Some people ignore the warning signs and keep on driving long after the shoes are completely worn out.  When this happens, metal brake components will grind against the drum, damaging it enough that it must be resurfaced or replaced.

When you push on your brake pedal, the wheel cylinder is activated, and it pushes the shoes against the drum to slow the vehicle.  This cylinder, and various springs within the brake, can wear out affecting your ability to stop.  The worn components can be easily replaced.

The new shoes we put on your vehicle will restore your brakes to manufacturers’ specifications.  Or, we can install upgraded parts to increase your stopping power and reduce brake noise and brake dust.  We have several options to meet your braking requirements as well as your budget.

Taking care of your brakes keeps them working safely – and you can also prevent premature brake repairs from happening down the road.

Give us a call or come in and see us and let us know how we can help you.

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