Why Brake Maintenance Is So Important

The importance of your brakes is, of course, obvious. Without them, you’d be unable to stop your car and greatly raise the risk of an accident. But if we all know that brakes are so important, then why don’t we take better care of them? The fact is that you 100 percent need your brakes to perform properly every time you drive. That means you need to bring your car in regularly for brake services in Lubbock, TX. Read on to find out about some simple, everyday steps that are essential to keeping your brakes functioning well:

• Heavy use: Did you know that the use of your car’s brakes makes a difference in how efficiently your car operates? If you have a heavy foot on the brake—meaning that you’re pressing down quickly and hard—you’re decreasing fuel efficiency while overusing the brakes. This leads to pads and rotors wearing out quickly if you use repeated heavy braking. The heat needs time to dissipate, so use lighter, even pressure when braking.
• First signs: Like many automotive maintenance tips, simply responding at the first sign of a problem is the best course. If your brakes are making a high-pitched, squealing sound whenever you stop, don’t ignore it. Bring your car in and see what’s causing the problem. It could be anything from a buildup of grime to worn-out brake pads to contaminated brake fluid.
• Maintenance: Taking the car in regularly for brake service on a set schedule is another good practice to nip problems in the bud. Check the owner’s manual to find out how often your vehicle’s brakes should be serviced. If you’re not certain, a good rule of thumb is about every 12,000 miles. Brake pads, for example, tend to wear out at about 25,000 miles on most vehicles. Similarly, brake fluid needs to be replaced at around the same interval. Rotors can last longer, especially if you avoid hard braking and overuse.
• Load consideration: For those in businesses that frequently use their vehicle, these general rules may not apply. If you are frequently carrying heavy loads in your vehicle or using it all day long—say, for rideshares or deliveries—you’ll want to have the brake system checked out more frequently. The last thing you want is your vehicle on the side of the road due to faulty brakes while you’re on the job.

It’s always a smart move to keep your vehicle operating smoothly by working with a trusted mechanic at an auto shop in Lubbock, TX. M & M Tire & Service Center has been a premier provider of general automotive repairs in the Lubbock area since 1975. Our expert team works to provide every customer with quality repairs and services at prices they can afford.

At M & M Tire & Service Center, we offer oil changes, brake servicing, suspension repair, tires, electrical system analysis, heating and air conditioning service, engine repairs, door and window repairs and safety inspections. Call us today to schedule your next appointment!

Categorised in: Auto Shop, Brake Services

This post was written by Writer