Express Car Care of Denver

"Denver's Best Auto Repair and Quick Lube"

Driving With ABS Brakes

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Do you know what kind of braking system you have on your vehicle?  It matters.  Do you think you should pump your brakes to get them to stop better on a slippery surface?  Or are they computerized and they pump the brakes for you?

The most common brakes on today’s vehicles are anti-lock braking systems, or ABS for short.  They employ a computer and sensors in the wheels to give you a big edge over the older systems.  ABS began to be regularly installed on vehicles in the 1970’s but weren’t mandated until 2004 in the European Union and 2013 in the United States.

Let’s go back to the “old” days when there were no computerized brakes.  The driver pushed down the pedal that then sent pressure to all four wheels at the same time.  Unfortunately, all four tires aren’t gripping the road the same way; some have more traction than others because of the varying road surface, so stopping and steering can be compromised.  In older systems, pumping the pedal made sense because a driver was letting off the brakes when the tires were skidding in an attempt to regain traction.

ABS changed all that.  Sensors in each wheel now can determine which ones are turning faster than others and then adjust brake pressure accordingly, maintaining maximum grip.  They automatically “pump the brakes” up to 20 times a second.  That helps a driver’s stopping distance and steering control, both important in avoiding obstacles.

ABS is designed for the driver to apply steady pressure on the pedal since the computer can do things that are not humanly possible.  If you have ABS, pumping the brakes can defeat the technology that’s trying to help you maintain control.  Remember the three S’s:  Stomp-Stay-Steer.  Stomp your brakes, stay on the brakes, and steer as needed.

Now you can see how important it is to know which system is in your vehicle.  If you’re not sure, consult your service adviser.  That’s also a good time to go over your vehicle’s brake system and maintenance schedule.  ABS is sophisticated technology and needs to be maintained so it will work the way it is designed.  Remember stopping and going are both important when it comes to vehicle safety.

A Guide To Anti-Lock Brakes

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

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

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

How do anti-lock brakes work?

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

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

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

Why are my anti-lock brakes coming on?

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

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

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

Where is the anti-lock brake?

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

The easiest is to check your owner’s manual.

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

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

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

How do you test anti-lock brakes?

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

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

How long do ABS controls last?

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

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

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

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

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

Brake Fluid Low? This Is How You Know

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What happens when you push down on the brake pedal?

Your car slows and eventually comes to a stop.

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

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

How the brake system works

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

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

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

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

It’s time to check your brake fluid levels

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

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

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

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

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

Finding the brake fluid reservoir

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

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

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

Brake fluid looks okay if …

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

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

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

Adding brake fluid

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

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

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

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

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

Schedule your maintenance visit today.

The Most Common Automotive Brake Problems

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What’s one of the most critical systems in your car? It would be hard to argue against the braking system. Imagine your brakes failing as you’re exiting the highway, or as you’re slowing down to round a corner.

Which is why it’s important to pay attention to the little things your car tries to tell you every time you drive. Many common automotive brake problems can be solved quickly – if you catch them early enough. The more you listen to what your vehicle is telling you, the safer you’ll be.

How to stopThe Most Common Automotive Brake Problems

The art of stopping is based on kinetic energy. Every object on earth has kinetic energy based on its mass and velocity. The object’s mass (weight) determines its velocity (how fast it will go).

To stop, you have to remove the kinetic energy. For you and me, we simply slow down our speed. But for large objects – cars – the braking system is built for the process.

Take a moment to look through your front wheel, you can see a metal disc just inside. Most cars today use what’s called a disc brake system. As you apply pressure to the brake pedal inside your car, a brake pad clamps onto this disc and rubs it to stop the motion. It slows it down depending on the force you apply to the brake action.

Cars not only have a lot of weight, but they can also reach very high speeds. Have you ever hit 70, 80, or more on the highway? Your brakes have to be able to stop quickly even at these speeds without throwing your vehicle into a tailspin. When you hit the brake pedal, all of this energy is immediately transferred to the brake pads. That means these pads have to be able to withstand a lot of heat (950 degrees F or more) and be able to function properly.

For that reason, brake pads are made of materials that won’t melt, such as alloy, ceramics, or other carbon-based materials. Eventually, these pads start to wear down. The thinner they get, the more pressure you have to apply to perform the same function. Until eventually they wear out altogether.

You want to get a full lifespan from the brake pads. You have to parallel that with replacing them before they put you at risk. That’s why it’s important to have a mechanic on your side, who will provide you with honest, accurate feedback on what to expect from your investment.

A lot happens in between installing new brakes and replacing them when they’re worn out. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

What is brake dust, and what causes it?

Have you ever washed your car and noticed gray-black dust covering your wheels? That’s brake dust.

As the brake pads apply pressure to the disc, iron particles slowly grind off. These small iron and metal particles are nothing more than residue from the brake pad material as this process occurs.

Brake dust is not an indication that your brake pads are malfunctioning. Yet it is important to clean brake dust away from your wheels, as it can erode the clear coat of your alloy wheel, which causes more problems to your vehicle.

Fortunately, that’s an easy process. You can purchase wheel cleaner at your local automotive shop. Just use a soft bristle brush and rinse it away.

What is brake fade?

Have you ever pressed down on the brake pedal and it’s felt like the brakes aren’t working? It could be brake fade. There are several reasons this could be happening.

Friction fade occurs when you overuse your brakes. This happens quite frequently here in Colorado because of the Rocky Mountains. As you’re coming down a steep hill, to keep the car from gaining speed, some unsuspecting drivers will put their foot on the brake pedal and keep applying pressure. That constant friction creates enormous amounts of heat. This can cause the brake pad and rotor to stop working.

Older cars might experience brake fluid fade, which is caused by a degradation of brake fluid. Different manufacturers have different requirements on when to replace your brake fluid. If you ignore these guidelines, it begins to absorb water and other debris. That causes the brake fluid to boil at lower temperatures, causing steam to build up in the system. If you’ve ever felt your brakes getting a little “spongy”, this is the cause.

While not one of the most common reasons for brake fading, you can occasionally experience mechanical fade. New brake pads have a resin in them that can break down as it heats. If they weren’t created properly, it may produce a gas that prevents friction between the pad and the disc. This causes the brakes to stop working.

If you experience any of these, it’s important to allow your brakes to cool down. Pull over to the side of the road and give them time to cool. If you’re coming out of the mountains, downshift to lower gears to take the pressure off the brake pads. Do not touch any part of the wheels or brakes – they will be very hot to the touch.

What if my car shakes or has vibrations?

Another common automotive brake problem leaves your vehicle shaking or vibrating.

Have you ever noticed your steering wheel shaking? It could your brake pads are contaminated with dirt, oil, or other substances. It can also occur if your brake pads are warped, damaged, or excessively worn.

It could be your brake disc or rotors are worn down. As the surfaces continue to function and take heat as you brake, they sometimes wear in different ways. That can cause unevenness over the surface areas. When you apply the brakes, the brake pads grab the discs unevenly, and you’ll feel a vibration as you come to a stop.

It could be alignment issues. If your car has experienced damage from potholes, for example, it can impact the way the entire suspension system works. If you feel vibration in the pedal as you press down, it most likely has to do with your alignment.

Lastly, the more wear your entire suspension system has, the more parts could malfunction. Ball joints, wheel bearings, tie rods – there are many possibilities. This is when it’s important to notice when you have most of your problems. If you notice it primarily during turning, it’s your suspension system. If it’s primarily when you brake, it’s your brake pads or rotors.

Is it time for brake repair? 

Have you noticed any of these common automotive brake problems with your vehicle? Maybe it’s time to have a mechanic thoroughly evaluate your car.

Schedule your appointment today and ensure your car is safe for you to drive, and your family to ride in. It will give you peace of mind as you head out and enjoy all the Rocky Mountains has to offer. 

What Happens If Your Brakes Overheat?

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Our modern society can’t survive without driving a car. Eighty-three percent of all Americans drive on a frequent basis. 

Here in Colorado, it’s more than a choice; it’s a necessity. If you want to get to work, school, and enjoy your free time a little bit more, owning a car can get you where you’re going in a fraction of the time. 

Of course, owning a car means certain responsibilities. If you own a car, you have to maintain it, so it becomes reliable whenever you need it. What Happens If Your Brakes Overheat?

Have you noticed the brakes squealing? Or maybe you notice a new smell as your brakes heat up. All of these and more may be a sign that you have a problem with your brakes. 

What happens when you brake?

Most people assume it’s the brakes that stop your car. That isn’t the case. Instead, the brakes are designed to stop the wheels from moving. It’s your wheels slowing down that stops the car. 

Modern disc brakes are a large plate-sized disc attached to each wheel. The clamping of the discs causes friction. This is what slows you down. But this friction also generates heat, and that heat has to go somewhere. Disc brakes are designed to dissipate the heat in different ways. Heat will transfer to the brake pads and the brake fluid. It may have a ventilated core with air ducts that help keep them cool.

The system is designed to work flawlessly … for a while. But like everything, sometimes things don’t happen the way they are intended. 

What happens if brakes overheat?

When you push down on the brake pedal inside your car, your vehicle’s brake pads generate friction. This friction is what slows the car down or brings it to a stop, depending on the level of force. 

This action occurs over and over again as you move through the city. But sometimes as heat builds, there’s too much of it. How do you know if your brakes are overheating?

Your brake pedal feels soft

This is where it helps to pay attention to how your car handles. When you press down on the brake pedal, does it have a “spongy” feel? Over time, water can start accumulating in your car’s brake fluid reservoir. As that heats up from use, it starts to reduce the effectiveness of your brakes. This isn’t always a sign of brakes overheating; it could be several other things. Like damage to the brake line. Or low brake fluid. No matter what the problem, if you notice this “soft” feeling when you tap the brake pedal, it’s best to come in for inspection quickly to avoid the consequences of brake failure. 

Your brake pads smoke and smell

Instead of feeling a problem, you may see or smell it instead. Do you notice smoke coming from the wheels? Or maybe you notice a smell every time you brake? This is your brake system telling you something is wrong. 

When brake pads overheat, they put off a similar scent to burning carpet. Once you smell it, you’ll recognize it every time. This is a sure sign that it’s time for a checkup. 

Your brakes are squealing

You can also hear when brakes are failing. They often make a lot of noise. When the friction from the brake action generates enough heat, the pads start to wear and smooth. As they wear down, the glaze on the pad has more difficulty creating the friction. If you’ve ever thought it sounds like metal on metal, that’s literally the case. Press down on the brake pedal, and you’ll hear it squeak and squeal. That’s a sign it’s time to head in for an inspection. 

What to do when brakes overheat

Because there are many signs of brake failure, think of it as your car’s early warning signs. It’s telling you there’s a big problem; you need to slow down and find a safe place to pull over. Only when you’re in a safe place should you let your brakes cool down and determine if they are safe to drive or you should call for a tow. 

Are there ways to avoid overheating?

While overheating often comes with age, there are other factors that can make it more of a possibility. 

The way you drive

Are you the type who pounds on the brake pedal? Do you roar up to the car in front of you and constantly ride the brakes? You’re more likely to experience overheating. By making your ride smooth and steady, you’ll use your brake pads in a more appropriate manner. You’ll give your brake pads a chance to cool in between your stops and starts. 

The way you use your car

Here in Denver, we have a relatively flat city driving experience. But that changes the moment you head up into the hills. As you drive back down from a weekend of playing, try engine braking instead of riding your brakes. Engine braking means downshifting to let the engine take over the slowing process. This means you won’t have to leave your foot on the brake pedal as you spend minutes – hours – coming down out of the mountains. 

The way you maintain your car

There are two ways to approach vehicle maintenance: routine or emergency. Either way, we’re here for you. Routine maintenance allows you to take charge of how well your car operates. We’ll check everything out on a routine basis to ensure it’s working in its best condition. Emergency maintenance means we’ll replace the brake system after you experience some type of failure. Of course, this isn’t the most desired way, as you never know when that will occur. But in the event something happens, we’re here. 

What happens if your brakes overheat? Your first course of action is to stop and get to safety. But how you proceed depends on your situation. 

We suggest bringing your car in and having a full inspection. Your braking system is one of the most important systems on your vehicle; let’s ensure it’s working safely. 

Have additional questions about your brake system, brake repair, or how well your car is operating? We’re here for you anytime; give us a call and ask. 

Car Brakes 101: How They Work and How To Repair Them

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What’s the most overlooked part of your car? Yep, it’s your car brakes.

You enjoy taking your car to the carwash and driving a sparkling car. You have a little sticker on your windshield, reminding you of the need for oil changes. But car brakes? When was the last time you gave them any thought at all?

Yet they aren’t something you can ignore.Car Brakes 101: How They Work and How To Repair Them

What brakes do

Brakes don’t stop the car. Instead, brakes stop the wheels from turning, which in turn slows down the car and brings it to a stop.

Most modern cars use disc brakes for the stopping process. Disc brakes consist of:

  • Brake discs
  • Calipers
  • Brake pads
  • Brake lines
  • Brake master cylinder

Every wheel has a plate-like disc attached to it. Also called a rotor, this plate is squeezed by the brake pads within the caliper every time you want to slow down.

Brake pads have two layers: a metal backing and a high-friction material molded onto the backing plate with heat and pressure. It’s also coated with an adhesive that helps the brake pad and caliper withstand high temperatures and excessive heat buildup.

What are brake pads made out of?

If you head back in time, the original brake pads that grew in popularity during the 1950s and 1960s were made from asbestos. It was thought to be a great material because of its heat-resistance and durability qualities. However, as health ramifications were discovered, auto manufacturers looked for alternatives to make a safer product.

The organic brake pad was created from a variety of materials and fibers and mixed together with binding resins to hold them together. You might find glass, rubber, carbon, Kevlar, and other fibers mixed in. Because they are inexpensive to create, the majority of new cars are still installed with organic brake pads today. They’re easy on the brake rotors, suitable for all driving environments, and don’t require a lot of heat to generate good friction. That makes them the perfect choice in most conditions.

The metallic brake pads are manufactured with steel, iron, copper, or other metals, added to friction modifiers and fillers to create the final product. Metallic brake pads are thought to be one of the most versatile on the marketplace, being more durable and longer lasting than the organic composition.

You’ll find better braking performance, a wider operating range in heat and cold conditions, a firmer feel in driving conditions, and more resistant in the long term. But because the brake pad is created from metal, it is noisier than other brake choices, and will produce more brake dust.

The newest brake pad on the market is made from ceramic. Ceramic pads are created from a dense ceramic material – think pottery – with copper fibers added during production. They are quieter than metallic brake pads, and produce a finer brake dust which won’t stick to wheels. And because it has the longest lifespan of any brake pad, they can be a great choice if you’re investing in your car for the long term.

What causes brake pads to wear

The biggest enemy to a brake pad is heat. As the brake pad moves against the brake disc, friction occurs, and heat is produced. To remove this heat, a car is designed with several systems to prevent buildup, especially in the front brakes where more action occurs. The brake disc is ventilated to allow cooler air to be pumped in and spread to the outer edges of the disc. The more hot air is kept away from the center, the less likely the disc will “fade.”

Fading is when brakes overheat. If car brakes are continually used while overheated, brake fluid can impact the calipers, which reduces the ability to brake. You may notice this if:

You’ve had to depress the brake pedal farther to the floor

You’ve pushed the brake pedal all the way to the floor without any braking

It takes you more distance to come to a stop

You smell a burning odor during the braking process

Your brakes start smoking or catch fire

This is where higher performing brake pads come into play. While an organic brake pad will provide excellent performance in standard conditions, only you can decide how you drive. If you need better performance, talk with one of our technicians about which option is best for you.

Keep your brake system happy

While it might be a glamorous purchase, brake pads are vitally important to your car’s safety and performance. Of course, so is regular maintenance.

Like an oil change, your brake fluid should be changed regularly too. Brake fluid attracts moisture. And moisture isn’t a good thing for your car’s braking performance.

Moisture reduces brake fluid’s boiling point, which makes it easier for brakes to overheat, especially in summer conditions.

Boiling brake fluid also enhances fading, which means your brakes can fail at the most inopportune time, like driving down long hills. That can be a big problem if you’re coming home after a fun-filled weekend in the mountains.

Moisture also corrodes metal. And since your brake pads are created from metal, it can wear down or even cause your brake pads to cease long before you anticipate.

Your best bet is to replace your brake fluid on a regular basis, according to your car’s manufacturer recommendations, or every couple of years. It’s the perfect way to keep your car happy and running well no matter what type of driving you do.

While brakes may not be the sexiest piece of equipment on your vehicle, they are one of the most important. If you want to keep a well-maintained car ready for all sorts of driving conditions, the best place to start is at the bottom – with your car brakes. Well-maintained car brakes will have better braking capability and keep you and your car’s occupants safe and secure.

And that can be a very good thing, whether you’re driving home from a day of skiing, or heading to work in the middle of the summer. Make the right choice, and your car brakes will be happy for the life of your car.

Brake Rotor Problems

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Brake Rotor ProblemsDisc brakes are called disc brakes because of the big metal disc or rotor that spins with the wheel.  The brake pads rub against the rotor to slow the vehicle.  In technical terms, the motion energy of the moving vehicle is transferred into heat energy by the brakes.  The job of the rotor is to absorb that heat and dissipate it into the atmosphere.  To do that effectively, the rotor needs a certain amount of mass ( measured by the thickness of the rotor) and a good surface to mate with the brake pads.  Let’s talk about those two things.

First is the thickness.  A new rotor is nice and thick and can absorb a lot of heat and dissipate it effectively.  Over time, the rotor will wear away slightly.  If it wears away too much, there isn’t enough metal to take care of the heat transfer and the vehicle will not brake as well.  In fact, each rotor is stamped with the minimum thickness the rotor must have, when the rotor reaches this “discard thickness”, it must be replaced.

The next thing for our consideration is the rotor surface.  This isn’t just about the quality of the rotor’s surface, but also about how evenly the brake pad sweeps the rotor.  Several things can affect the “swept area” of the rotor.  A common problem is a scored or scratched rotor.  When brake pads wear past the point in which they should be replaced, metal parts of the brake can meet the rotors and grind grooves into the rotor.  Imagine putting new brake pads on a scored brake rotor.  The pad would only contact the ridges.  This can significantly reduce the contact area and hurt braking performance.  When a brake rotor has been scored, it may be able to be resurfaced on a brake lathe which smooths the surface.  If the brake rotor isn’t thick enough to be resurfaced, it need to be replaced.

Another common brake rotor problem is something called run out.  This is when the rotor is slightly off axis or crooked, so the brake pads don’t come into contact fully or evenly with the rotor.  Run out is measured in thousandths of an inch, so we are talking about very small variations that can affect braking.  Run out can be caused by a bit of dirt or rust between the brake rotor and the wheel hub, or even by slight variations in the mating surfaces of the brake and hub.  Your technician can determine the cause and take the appropriate measures to restore proper brake pad contact.

When run out isn’t detected and corrected early, the rotor itself can wear unevenly leading to thickness variations.  This condition is called parallelism because the inboard and outboard surfaces of the rotor are not longer parallel.  The variations are small, measured in 10 thousandths of an inch, but they can significantly affect braking performance because of limited brake pad contact.  This condition used to be referred to as “warped” rotors.  If the rotor is still thick enough, the brake technician will correct the underlying run out problem and resurface the rotor to restore the contact surface, but if the rotor is severely worn it must be replaced.

So, if you hear a grinding sound when you brake, or if your pedal feels unusually soft or hard, bring your vehicle in for an inspection.  We can get you the quality parts you need to fix the problem.

Disc Brakes

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Question:  What are the signs that I need a brake job?

Express Car Care Answer:  Signs of brake problems often fall into one of two categories for Denver vehicles:  making noise or a pulsation in the brake pedal.  Why don’t we start with the noise.

Most brake pads have an audible brake wear indicator.  This is a small piece of metal that rubs on your brake rotor when the brake pads are worn to the point that they should be replaced.  The noise is a chirp or soft squeal.  This noise gives drivers enough warning to get their brakes serviced while there is still enough brake pad left to enable them to stop safely.

Any driver who ignores the chirp will find that the sound changes to a grinding noise.  This is more serious.  It means that the friction material on your brake pad is worn away and metal parts of the brake are grinding against the rotor when you press on the brakes.  Obviously, this metal-on-metal means that your brakes aren’t going to stop very well.  It also means that your rotor is being damaged.  It may need to be resurfaced or even replaced if it reaches this point.

Pedal pulsation is another noticeable sound.  When your rotor is not in perfect alignment, it pushes against the brake pads unevenly as you apply the brakes.  There could be a number of reasons for this, the rotor and wheel hub may not be mating well which causes the rotor to spin out of vertical alignment.  This misalignment can be caused by either the rotor or the hub, or a combination of the two.  If this persists, the rotor may even start to wear unevenly to the point that its thickness varies, causing an even more noticeable pulsation.  This uneven mating of the brake pad and the rotor when braking means less contact and a reduced braking power.

Your service center or the team at Express Car Care can determine the cause of the misalignment and remedy the problem.  Either unusual brake noise or pedal pulsation are signs for drivers that they have brake problems.  Drivers should have a tech check their brakes thoroughly and recommend any steps necessary to correct the problem.  A regular brake inspection is on every vehicles recommended list.  Ask your service adviser if it’s time for that very important brake inspection.

Warning Signs You Need New Brakes

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Warning Signs You Need New BrakesThey may not be something we think about very often, but our vehicle’s brakes are one feature that should always be in top working condition.  Let’s look and see how to spot the warning signs you need new brakes.

Look, listen

There are two ways to check for brake wear on disc brakes:  by looking and listening.  First, check for wear by looking at your brake pads through the spaces between the wheels.  The outside pad will be pressed against a metal rotor.  Generally, there should be at least 1/4 inch of pad.  If you see less than 1/4 inch of pad, you may want to have your brake pads inspected or replaced.

Have you ever heard a high-pitched screeching sound when you applied your brakes?  That’s a small metal shim, called an indicator, which is giving you an audible warning that you need to replace your brake pads.  You should be aware of this sound (which is loud enough to be heard while the windows are up, but not necessarily loud enough to be heard over the radio or air conditioner).  If you hear it regularly, quickly make an appointment with your mechanic.

One exception is if your car has been sitting after being exposed to water, such as from rain or from washing it.  The moisture can cause a thin layer of rust to develop on the brake rotors.  This is normal.  When you first apply the brakes, the pads pressing on the rust-covered rotors may cause a squeal for a few stops until the rust is worn off and then the sound should disappear.

Here are some other signs of brake problems.  If you experience any of these, you should visit your repair shop as soon as possible.

Reduced responsiveness or fading.  If your brakes are not as responsive as they should be or if the pedal “sinks” toward the floor, this could be an indication of a leak in the braking system.  It could be an air leak…in the brake hose…or a brake fluid leak.  One warning sign of a brake fluid leak is the presence of a small puddle of fluid when the car is parked.  Brake fluid looks similar to fresh motor oil, but with a less “slimy” texture.

 Pulling.  If your vehicle “pulls” to one side while braking, it may be a sign that the brake linings are wearing unevenly or that there is foreign matter in the brake fluid.  Your vehicle may need a brake adjustment or to have the fluid drained and replaced.

Grinding or growling.  This loud metallic sound means that you have worn down the pads completely, most likely beyond replacement.  The grinding or growling noise is caused by the two pieces of metal…the disc and the caliper…rubbing together.  This can “score” or scratch your rotors, creating an uneven surface.  If this happens, don’t be surprised if your mechanic tells you that the rotors need to be turned (a process that evens out the rotor surface) or replaced.

Vibration.  A vibration or pulsating brake pedal is often a warning of warped rotors, but can also indicate that your vehicle is out of alignment.  The vibration can feel similar to the feedback in the brake pedal during a panic stop in a vehicle equipped with anti-lock brakes.  It is a sign of warped rotors if the vibration occurs during braking situations when the anti-lock brakes are not engaged.  Warped rotors are caused by severe braking for long periods, like driving down a steep mountain or when towing.  Tremendous amounts of friction are created under these condition, heating up the rotors and causing them to warp.  The vibration is felt because the brake pads are not able to grab the surface evenly.  If you drive in these conditions, make sure to stop periodically to allow your brakes to cool off.

For many owners, maintaining the vehicle’s brakes is something that is often overlooked.  But keeping your brakes properly calibrated and in good working order can prevent costly repairs down the road and more importantly, help you avoid a collision.

 

 

Brake Job?

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Brake Job?Question:  What are the signs that I need a brake job?

Express Car Care Answer:  Signs that you need a brake job often fall into one of two categories…making noise or a pulsation in the brake pedal.  Let’s begin with the noise.

Most brake pads have an audible brake wear indicator.  This is a small piece of metal that rubs on your brake rotor when the brake pads are worn to the point they should be replaced.  The noise is a chirp or a soft squeal.  This noise gives drivers enough warning to get their brakes serviced while there is still enough brake pad left to enable them to stop safely.

Drivers who ignore the chirp find that the sound changes to a grinding noise.  This is more serious.  Grinding means that the friction material on your brake pad is worn away and the metal parts of the brake are grinding against the rotor when you press on the brakes.  Obviously, this metal-on-metal means that your brakes aren’t stopping very well.  It also means that your rotor is being damaged.  It may need to be resurfaced or even replaced.

Pedal pulsation is the other sign you might need a brake job.  When your rotor is not in perfect alignment, it pushes against the brake pads unevenly as you apply the brakes.  There could be a number of reasons for this problem.  The rotor and wheel hub may not be mating well, causing the rotor to be spinning out of vertical alignment.  This misalignment can be caused by either the rotor, the hub, or a combination of both.  If this persists, the rotor may start to wear unevenly to the point that its thickness varies, causing an even more noticeable pulsation.  This uneven mating of the brake pad and the rotor when braking means less contact and less braking power.

Either unusual brake noise or pedal pulsation are signs for drivers that there are brake problems and you might need a brake job.  If you’re experiencing either of these signs, have your brakes thoroughly inspected at Express Car Care so we can recommend any steps necessary to correct the problem.

 

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