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Your brakes are essential for safe vehicle operation. You rely on them to bring your car to a controlled stop in routine braking and emergencies. Braking systems use a combination of hydraulic and mechanical processes to accomplish their job. Electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrids now incorporate regenerative braking systems to capture kinetic energy from the braking process to recharge the electric motor's battery.
These complex parts can break or wear out over time, so you should routinely have your brakes inspected to maintain optimal operating conditions and avoid unnecessary repairs. We asked our brake specialists to weigh in on brake system maintenance.
How To Tell if Your Brakes Need Service
You can't see your entire brake system without looking closely, which typically requires removing parts. For instance, you must remove the tire to see the brake pads and discs. The hydraulic brake lines run from the master cylinder to the calipers on each wheel, requiring you to pop the hood and crawl beneath your car to inspect them. Fortunately, your brake system can indicate problems before it fails. Below are some common signs your brakes need service.
Brake Warning Light Is On
Emergency warning lights vary by vehicle, but almost every Chevrolet has a noticeable warning light that indicates a brake system problem. The light could indicate an issue with hydraulic pressure, low brake fluid, worn pads, etc. If your brake warning light comes on, have a professional mechanic inspect your vehicle immediately. Ignoring an emergency indicator can lead to unsafe operations and costly repairs.
Unusual Noises While Braking
Your vehicle's brake pads are designed to wear out from the high heat and friction of the braking process. Small pins are exposed when the pads wear to a certain level, causing a squealing noise during braking. That sound indicates it's time to get the brake pads changed.
However, if you delay replacing the brake pads, the squealing will become a grinding sound due to the pads' low surface level. This grinding noise indicates you've waited too long and started damaging the discs. A grinding noise could also indicate a foreign object lodged in the brake pads, which can cause similar damage if left unchecked. We recommend that our factory-certified technicians inspect your vehicle if you hear any unusual sounds.
Unusual Brake Feel
We develop a feel for how our cars drive, including stopping. You should feel a smooth, controlled pressure as you slow your car to a stop. If you have a problem with your brakes, you might feel your wheels wobble or experience vibrations or a pulsing sensation through the brake pedal.
A spongy, soft feel when you press the brake pedal might mean you have low brake fluid or a pressure issue caused by a faulty master cylinder or a leak in your brake line. Another symptom of unusual brake feel includes pulling to one side while braking.
These signs point to a problem with your brake system but could also indicate issues with your steering and suspension systems. We recommend you visit our service center immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Benefits of Getting Your Brakes Serviced
Keeping your brakes in tip-top shape ensures safe operations. You rely on your brakes to keep you and your passengers safe while driving to school, work, the grocery store, and weekend getaways in Plano. We recommend you have your brake system inspected at every oil change. Our factory-trained technicians can detect issues before they compromise safety.
Regular brake service will also help you avoid more costly repairs. For example, changing your brake pads before damage to your discs and rotors occurs will save you money. Brake pads cost anywhere from $25 to $50 per wheel. Replacing a brake disc can cost hundreds of dollars per wheel. So, changing your brake pads before they damage your discs can save a lot of money.
Types of Brakes
The auto industry uses two types of brake systems. Drum brakes were once the norm and consisted of brake shoes housed within a drum-shaped cylinder attached to the wheels. When you press the brake pedal, the shoes press against the drum to slow the wheel's turning and stop the vehicle.
Disc brakes differ from drum brakes because a disc-shaped rotor is attached to the wheel instead. They also have calipers with brake pads attached. When you press the brake pedal, the calipers clamp the pads down on both sides of the disc, slowing your vehicle.
Most modern vehicles have disc brakes because they have better thermal properties for absorbing the heat created during braking. Drum systems don't have the same ability, and once the drum system absorbs too much heat, it loses its ability to stop effectively. However, EVs and hybrids with regenerative braking systems use the electric motor to slow the vehicle, requiring less energy from the braking system. Because of this, it isn't uncommon to see rear drums and front discs on EVs and hybrids.
Brake pads come in various materials, such as ceramic, organic, and metallic. Ceramic performs best because it has superior heat absorption and wears the slowest. However, ceramic pads take time to warm up for maximum performance, so they may not be ideal if you mostly take short trips driving around town. We suggest you use the factory-recommended brake pads for your vehicle.
What To Expect During Brake Service
Our friendly, professional technicians will provide you with a complete review of our brake inspection. They will explain any service requirements, including the cost and time to repair. We also offer a rotating list of service parts and repair specials. Your technician will review these with you to help reduce the cost of your visit.
Book Your Brake Appointment at Huffines Chevrolet Plano
You probably need an inspection if you have experienced any brake system issues or simply can't remember the last time you had your brakes checked. At Huffines Chevrolet Plano, we've streamlined the process with our online service scheduler. You can quickly choose a date and time that works for you and let our professionals handle the rest.
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