When you own a vehicle, you are responsible for keeping it well-maintained and ensuring that all repairs are completed on time, so your car keeps running correctly. As such, you may be wondering how often you should get a brake repair to keep your brakes functioning correctly to keep you safe on the road.
When to Schedule a Brake Repair?
No Set Rule
Unlike with oil changes, there are no manufacturer recommendations for when you should have your brakes repaired. This is because brakes wear differently based on drivers' driving habits and road conditions. For example, if you often drive in the mountains and have to use your brakes to slow your vehicle on steep hills, you'll probably need your brakes serviced sooner than drivers who drive mostly on flat land.
Another example of vehicles that might need to get their brake services more frequently are those that tow or haul heavy loads since they have to use more power to get the car and the load stopped. If you find yourself slamming on your brakes often or you drive in stop-and-go traffic frequently, you're probably wearing out your brakes faster than a driver who gradually comes to a stop or doesn't have to contend with rush hour traffic.
Quality of Parts Matters
You should always replace your brakes with factory-authorized parts specifically designed for your vehicle. This is because the manufacturer has engineered these parts to ensure your brakes stop your vehicle as they are meant to. Inferior parts could wear out much faster because they are designed to fit any vehicle and not engineered to any specifics. Your car should have different brakes than a heavy-duty truck because they have to perform differently.
You can always get factory-authorized parts at your dealership's service center. This is just one benefit of always having your car repaired or maintained at the dealership. Not only that, but your repair or service will be handled by a factory-trained technician who exclusively works on vehicles from the same manufacturer. Your car will get expert attention, and you won't have to worry whether the repair is done correctly or not.
Signs You Need to Get Your Brakes Fixed
Squealing or Grinding
If you hear a squealing or grinding sound coming from your wheels when you stop, you probably need to get your brakes fixed. Brake pads are specially designed to make a squealing sound to warn you that they are wearing out. Grinding means that you possibly have eroded your entire brake pad, and you're now damaging the rotor. This will need to be repaired right away.
Your Brake Feels Spongy
If it feels like you're stepping on a sponge when you press the brake pedal, this is an indication that you're losing brake fluid. There may be a leak that needs to be fixed, but you'll definitely need more brake fluid, even if no leak is found.
There's a Burning Smell When You Step on the Brake
A burning smell is a sign that your brakes are overheating. The immediate fix is to pull over and let your brakes cool down before you continue driving. However, you also want to have your brakes inspected to see if you need new brakes or more brake fluid.
Since there's no set time to get your brakes fixed, you need to pay attention to your driving habits, the parts you use, and any signs that indicate a brake problem. Call DARCARS INFINITI of Greenwich today or schedule your brake inspection online, and we'll get you safely back on the road.