Brake repair is one of the most common and expensive maintenance services for your car. But you don't have to break the bank to keep your brakes in good shape. Here are some of the best ways to reduce brake repair costs and maintain quality.
Not all brake pads are created equal. Some are cheaper, but wear out faster and produce more dust and noise. Others are more durable, but cost more and may not be compatible with your rotors. The best way to choose the right brake pads for your car is to consult your owner's manual, your mechanic, or your dealer. They can recommend the best type and brand of brake pads for your car's make, model, and driving conditions.
Just like with tires, choosing the right quality brake pad for your vehicle will be all the difference in braking performance throughout the life cycle of the pads.
One of the easiest ways to save money on brake repair is to prevent problems before they get worse. You should inspect your brakes at least once a year, or more often if you drive a lot or in harsh conditions. Look for signs of wear and tear, such as squeaking, grinding, pulsating, or fading. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your car to a trusted brake specialist as soon as possible. They can diagnose the issue and fix it before it causes more damage or compromises your safety.
At the first signs of abnormal noise, make the time to get the brakes inspected. Often, customers may continue to drive in these conditions to the point that the brake pad is completely worn to 'metal on metal' conditions, which wears out the pad, rotor, and caliper in some cases. Once the caliper piston has extended too from the caliper assembly, it is no longer deemed fit for reuse and new calipers are recommended to be installed.
Your brake fluid is the lifeblood of your braking system. It transfers the pressure from your pedal to your calipers, which squeeze your pads against your rotors. Over time, your brake fluid can get contaminated with moisture, dirt, and air, which can reduce its effectiveness and cause corrosion. You should replace your brake fluid every two years, or according to your manufacturer's specifications. This will ensure that your brakes work properly and smoothly.
An additional step to add to this check if the owner feels comfortable and has easy access to the brake fluid reservoir is to purchase a budget friendly device that measures the moisture content of the brake fluid. A mechanic can also perform this check as a way to indicate the fluid condition and can then recommend service if needed. Anything higher than 3% water content is a fail condition.
Your tires affect your brakes in more ways than you might think. If your tires are worn, uneven, or underinflated, they can put more stress on your brakes and make them work harder. This can lead to faster wear and tear, lower fuel efficiency, and reduced performance. To avoid these problems, you should rotate your tires every 6,000 miles, or as recommended by your tire manufacturer. This will help distribute the wear evenly and extend the life of your tires and brakes.
Video reference material is available online showing the drastic comparisons in braking distance between cars with fresh tires, 50% worn tires and almost bald tires. Tread depth and condition will play a big factor in how a vehicle stops.
Finally, the way you drive can have a big impact on your brake repair costs and quality. If you drive aggressively, brake hard, or tailgate, you can damage your brakes and endanger yourself and others. To drive smart, keep a safe distance from the car in front of you and anticipate traffic situations. Utilize engine braking when going downhill or approaching a stop sign or red light. Avoid carrying unnecessary weight or towing heavy loads, driving in extreme weather or on rough roads, and use cruise control when driving on highways or long distances. By following these tips, you can reduce brake repair costs and maintain quality while enjoying a smoother, safer, and more efficient driving experience.