Factors That Affect Brake Wear and Tear – Can An Auto Repair Shop Help? | Gretna, LA
One of the most important aspects of owning and maintaining a car is keeping up with its brakes. Unfortunately, many drivers do not properly maintain their brake system leading to problems later. Brake wear and tear can be caused by numerous elements, some predictable and others out of control. This blog post will look at all the factors influencing brake wear and tear and discuss how best to manage them, including visits to an auto repair shop for maintenance.
Road Conditions
Uneven roads caused by poor construction or potholes can put extra strain on brakes due to their need to compensate for these road irregularities. Therefore, you need to visit an auto repair shop more often for regular checks when traveling through areas with these types of road surfaces. It will ensure any potential damage can be caught early before it causes further issues down the line. Additionally, always take care when driving around large puddles/pools of water. Excess moisture can easily reach sensitive areas like calipers leading directly into internal components, resulting in major damage if not noticed soon enough.
Driving Distances
Long-distance trips without proper rest stops could also increase the rate at which brakes begin wearing out faster than normal. This is due to excessive heat build-up inside the system caused by prolonged use without adequate cooling-off periods between usage times. You should, therefore, always try to take regular pit stops during long drives, allowing your brakes to cool off before continuing the journey. Additionally, ensure that all fluids related to braking systems are topped off properly before long trips, as low fluid levels are known to cause uneven/reduced braking capabilities over time. Therefore, before embarking on a long journey, visit an auto repair shop for a general check-up of the brakes.
Quality of the Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is an essential component of a car’s brake system, significantly affecting the performance and wear of the brakes. The fluid works with the brake pedal, allowing for efficient braking power when applying pressure. With time, the fluid can become contaminated, leading to complications in its performance. Regular checks and maintenance of your brake fluid are essential to ensure the brakes continue functioning properly. When it’s time for a brake fluid flush, visit an auto repair shop to have them perform the service correctly and with quality parts.
Environmental Conditions
Environmental conditions can greatly impact brake wear and tear rate. Due to the high humidity levels in south Louisiana, brakes endure frequent exposure to moisture and are more likely to corrode than if exposed to dry climates. Additionally, due to higher temperatures and loose sand and dirt that blow around the area in the wind, brake rotors often get coated more frequently with debris that may cause accelerated wear and tear rates. This can be especially hazardous if grit accumulates between brake pads, adding even further friction levels. To ensure brakes remain in top condition, visit an auto repair shop for routine maintenance checks and repairs.
Age of Vehicle
The age of a vehicle is a major factor in how quickly brake wear and tear sets in. As the miles accumulate, the brakes will inevitably start to suffer. It stands to reason that cars with higher mileage should be inspected more carefully, as braking performance could decrease over time due to excessive wear and tear. An older vehicle may require more regular maintenance than a newer model simply because its brakes have been exposed to more wear and tear over its lifetime. Therefore, if you are the proud owner of an older vehicle, a routine visit to an auto repair shop is crucial for the health of your brakes.
Type of Brakes
The type of brakes that a vehicle has installed directly influences the wear and tear rate of those brakes. Disc brakes, commonplace on most vehicles today, require more frequent servicing than drum brakes, as they are exposed to more heat and friction. Disc brake pads must be changed regularly over drum brakes to ensure their best performance and safety. Bigger wheel sizes will also stress the brake system more, possibly resulting in shorter maintenance cycles. Ultimately, you should visit an auto repair shop for consultation on how often your brakes should be serviced and inspected, depending on the type of brakes installed in your vehicle.
Quality of the Parts
As with any mechanical system, the quality of the parts used in brake repairs and maintenance directly affects the brakes’ performance. Cheaply made or low-grade parts can significantly negatively impact brake performance and even lead to components’ failure over time. That’s why using only high-quality, original manufacturer parts is important when servicing your brakes. Don’t be tempted by cheaper alternatives—always visit an auto repair shop that uses quality parts for brake repair and maintenance services. You might pay a bit more upfront, but those parts will last longer and keep your car safe in the long run.
Safe Driving Starts with Healthy Brakes!
Maintaining a safe driving experience starts with monitoring your vehicle’s brake system health. By following these tips, you can ensure the brakes on your car continue to function properly and keep you safe on the road. Regularly visit an auto repair shop for brake inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep them in good condition. In addition, before heading out on the road, check for any signs of brake wear, such as squealing or grinding noises and decreased stopping power.
Need Help Keeping Your Car in Top Shape? Call Us!
Do you need help maintaining your vehicle’s brakes? Call us at Mr. Mechanic Auto Care today! We offer comprehensive brake services to keep your car running smoothly and safely. From routine maintenance to complex repairs, our ASE-certified technicians are here to help you keep your brakes in top condition. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Check out our previous blog on this topic here.
