How to Know When it’s Time to Replace Your Car Brakes

Posted on April 21, 2023 by autorepair

Maintaining your car is an important part of keeping it running smoothly and safely. One of the most essential maintenance tasks you can do on your vehicle is to regularly check and replace its brakes. Knowing when it’s time to replace or repair your vehicle’s brakes can be tricky, as there are several signs that indicate a need for brake work.

To ensure that your car remains safe to drive, here are some tips on how you can know when it’s time to replace or repair your car brakes.

Call 317-475-1846 For Car Brake Replacement in Indianapolis Indiana

Average Cost of Car Brake Replacement

Car brake replacement is an essential part of maintaining the safety and functionality of your vehicle. When it comes to the cost, the average price of replacing brake pads and rotors on a car can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. On average, the cost can range from $150 to $600 for a brake pad replacement, and around $300 to $800 for a rotor replacement. However, keep in mind that additional expenses may occur depending on the state of your brake calipers, brake lines, and brake fluid. Regularly checking and servicing your brakes can save you money in the long run and give you peace of mind while on the road.

How to Tell If You Need to Replace Your Car Brakes

Listen for Unusual Noises: One of the most common signs that your brakes need attention is if you hear a squealing noise when braking. This is usually caused by worn brake pads and should be addressed immediately.

Check Your Brake Fluid Level: If you notice that your brake fluid level has decreased, it could mean that your brake lines are leaking or need to be bled. You should have this checked out as soon as possible if this happens.

Pay Attention to How Your Car Feels When Braking: If you feel any vibrating or pulsing while braking, it means that there might be an issue with your car’s rotors or drums. You should have them inspected and replaced if necessary to ensure your car’s safety.

Notice if it Takes Longer to Stop: If you find that your car takes longer than normal to stop, it could be a sign that your brakes need attention. This could indicate that there is an issue with the brake system or that the pads are wearing out and need to be replaced.

Inspect Your Brakes Visually: You should periodically inspect your brakes visually for signs of wear and tear such as rust, cracks, or even damage caused by debris. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to have them checked and/or replaced.

By paying attention to these warning signs, you can help ensure that your car is safe on the road and prevent any further damage to your brakes. Regular brake maintenance is essential for car safety, so make sure to have your brakes checked and replaced when necessary. Doing so can save you from costly repairs down the line.

Ask a Mechanic When in Doubt

Always keep in mind that it’s important to have a qualified Indianapolis auto shop mechanic check out any problems with your brakes before attempting any DIY repair or replacement. It’s best to stay safe by having a professional take care of any issues as soon as possible. With proper care and regular maintenance, you can be sure that your brakes will remain functional and reliable for many years to come!

Conclusion

Knowing when it’s time to replace or repair your vehicle’s brakes can be tricky, but keeping an eye out for the warning signs can ensure that you get your brakes fixed before they cause any major damage. Regularly checking your brake fluid level, listening for strange noises, noticing how your car feels when braking and inspecting your brakes visually are all important steps to take in order to maintain the safety of your vehicle. Be sure to have a qualified mechanic in Indianapolis inspect and replace any worn parts so that you will be safe on the road. With proper care and attention, you can be sure that your car brakes will last for many years!

Are you worried that your vehicle’s braking system is in need of some immediate TLC? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional car brake repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

3 Auto Care Services to Ensure Brake Performance and Longevity

Posted on May 12, 2020 by autorepair

Well-maintained braking systems in any automobile are a vital necessity in the process of ensuring quality performance and proper handling, as well as, longevity and safety. There are several steps a person can take to guarantee consistent brake function and durability. Continue reading to learn the three routine maintenance services for automotive braking systems that can greatly influence the lifespan and dependability of any vehicle.

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Road Testing

All vehicles need to start with a road test to see where their car or truck stands when it comes to the braking system. During a standard road test, a mechanic is looking for squeaking, clunking, or noticeable grinding. Also, pedal effort, dragging, brake warning lights, and similar components are other focus areas during a road test. Pulsating brake pedals, parking brake issues, and more are other issues that can be determined during a road test.

Inspection

The next important part of brake maintenance services are inspections. An inspection of an automotive braking system should always be done by a licensed mechanic. Today’s braking systems are highly complicated. During a typical inspection, a mechanic is looking at the hydraulic system, hydraulic booster, the anti-lock brakes, vacuum booster, the drum brakes, the disc brakes, parking brakes, and tires. All these parts work together to promote a functioning brake system.

Recommended Car Brake Maintenance

Maintenance services for brakes should be done annually to ensure safety and performance. Brake pads, brake rotors, and brake fluid all need changed and replaced. On occasion, it is necessary to change out pads and rotors more often if the vehicle is driven more than usual. Other services include lubricating the parking brake components and star wheel adjuster, and inflating all tires.

Also, the hydraulic system requires a flush and refill. Although not always necessary, braking systems may also require services such as freeing up bleeder screws and applying anti-seize to the threads. Wheels, calipers, and tire rotations are also helpful for promoting optimal brake performance and safety.

Be sure to have your brakes tested, inspected, and serviced at least one time a year. It is important to protect yourself on the road, as well as other drivers. Trust a local Indianapolis automotive shop that specializes in the vehicle you own and operate. As long as you hire a licensed and experienced car repair specialists, you are in good hands. For tight wallets, look for shops that offer specials, deals, coupons, and discounts. This means they are a fair and honest shop that believes in their services enough to provide discounts for customers.

Affordable Same-Day Automotive Service in Indianapolis

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional automotive brake service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. We’re ASE certified car mechanics who provide a wide range of auto repairs and maintenance for both foreign and domestic vehicles. We also provide several amenities, such as free written estimates, flexible drop off and pickup hours, and more.

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Types of Vehicular Brakes

Posted on August 2, 2012 by autorepair

One of the most important components to a car or truck is the braking system. Braking systems are complicated, but all have the same duty; to stop a vehicle from motion. The types of brakes on a car or truck vary depending on the use of the vehicle. There are several different types of braking systems, from high performance to the more common brakes we see every day. Read on to learn more about the most common types of brakes found in everyday trucks and cars.

Anti-Lock Brakes

The most common type of anti-lock brakes are a computer-controlled system called ABS. These brakes were developed for safety reasons. Anti-lock brakes are brakes that prevent wheel lock-up when you make sudden stops. This prevents skidding, sliding, and decreases stopping distance. In all, anti-lock brakes are an automobile safety system intended to reduce stopping times on dry, slippery, or wet surfaces and increase vehicle control.

Drum Brakes

At first glance, a drum brake is a rotating car part shaped like a drum. The friction of these brakes is caused by a set of pads, or shoes, that press against it. Drum brakes are just a component of an entire braking system as a whole. When you apply pressure to your brakes, the wheel cylinder pushes the shoe against the drum, causing friction that makes the vehicle to slow down. They are usually made from cast iron because it is heat-conductive and sturdy. The heat-conductivity is important because when the lining is pressed against the inner surface of the brake drum, the heat of the friction can reach as high as 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Disk Brakes

This is a wheel brake that uses friction to slow down the vehicle. The friction is made by a set of calipers that makes the pads push up against the disc. Brake discs are also commonly referred to as brake rotors, which are also made from cast iron.

Parking Brakes

Parking brakes are self-explanatory. They are used to keep the vehicle in park. This is accomplished through the use of cables that apply the brakes mechanically to prevent rolling while in park. These brakes are most commonly used when parking n an incline or hill.

For more information about braking systems in cars, trucks, vans, and any other vehicle, contact a professional at Northeast Auto in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are licensed and certified auto mechanics with over 20 years of experience in the industry. We are happy to provide free estimates, advice, and more. Call us at 317-475-1846 or visit our Indianapolis Auto Repair website today!