Brake pads create the necessary friction and force to stop your vehicle. Their maintenance is an integral part of handling, drivability, and safety. Over time, heat and friction can wear the brake pads. In some cases, the brake pads can wear at different rates depending on the environment and your driving habits. If your commute has a lot of city driving, you'll use the brakes more frequently than freeway driving. However, braking at high speeds can wear the brake pads exponentially faster than at lower speeds. Brake wear is also dependent on the type of vehicle you drive, but you can do techniques to get the most out of your brake pads. Below are three tips to implement to increase the lifespan this winter.
Lighten the amount of weight you carry in your vehicle.
Excess weight will cause you to press harder on the pedal to slow down the same distance if there wasn't additional weight.
Increase your stopping distance.
Harsh braking that is hard and aggressive causes extreme heat and friction in the brake pads. This heat and friction can wear away the brake pad rubber down to the metal. Emergency braking may not be avoidable, but it's best to avoid tailgating other vehicles and slamming on the brakes at the last minute during every-day driving.
Slow down.
Speeding makes it more difficult for your vehicle to stop; slowing down puts less stress on your brakes. Before braking, allow your car to slow down naturally before using the brakes.
Signs it's time for brake maintenance:
- Leaked Brake Fluid
- Spongy Brake Pedal
- Squealing Brake Noise
- Vibrating Brake Pedal
- Stiff Brakes
- The brake light comes on.
- The brake pads are less than 25 percent thick.
Brake maintenance in Fairbanks, AK
Failing brakes can impact your drive's safety, and if you have any concerns, University Chevron has the experts who can help. Our ASE certified technicians offer a full range of brake system services such as brake replacement, brake pad servicing, and brake flushes. We only use quality premium parts with qualified repairs backed by 36 months or 36,000-mile warranty.
If you need brake servicing, click here to schedule an appointment.
Or give us a call at 886-833-7317 Mon – Fri from 7:30 AM - 6:00 PM.