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.

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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.

10 Tips for Keeping Your Brakes in Good Condition

Posted on January 12, 2023 by autorepair

Are you looking for ways to keep your car’s brakes in good condition? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Proper brake maintenance is essential for safe driving and avoiding costly repairs. Here are 10 tips to help you keep your brakes in top shape throughout the year. From regular inspections and fluid changes to checking brake pads and rotors, these easy-to-follow steps will ensure that your vehicle has reliable braking power whenever you need it.

So, read on for some useful advice about keeping your brakes in great condition!

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Top 10 Ways to Take Good Care of Your Car Brakes

1. Get Regular Brake Inspections: An easy way to make sure your brakes are in good condition is to have them regularly inspected by a mechanic or technician. A qualified professional will be able to detect any potential problems with your brakes before they become serious and expensive repairs.

2. Change Your Brake Fluid: Changing your brake fluid regularly is one of the most important maintenance steps you can take. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which makes it less effective at stopping your car. Be sure to keep up with this simple but important step for optimal brake performance.

3. Check Your Brake Pads: Another important part of maintaining your brakes is to check the brake pads. If they become too worn, it’s time to replace them. This will help reduce friction and wear on your rotors, which can save you money in the long run.

4. Check Your Rotors: The rotors are what allow your car’s brakes to stop quickly and effectively. Over time, the rotors can become warped or damaged due to wear and tear. If this happens, it’s important to have them replaced as soon as possible to avoid any costly repairs down the line.

5. Clean Your Brakes: Regularly cleaning your brakes will help keep them in good condition by removing dirt, dust, and other debris that can build up over time. This simple step will ensure your brakes are always working their best.

6. Check for Leaks: Checking for leaks in your brake lines is essential to maintaining optimal brake performance. If any leaks are detected, they should be repaired immediately to avoid any further damage or costly repairs.

7. Check for Vibrations: If you feel any vibrations or pulsing when applying your brakes, it could be a sign that something is wrong. This could be caused by worn brake pads, warped rotors, or loose parts. Have a mechanic inspect your brakes if this happens to ensure everything is in good condition.

8. Avoid Sudden Stops: It’s important to avoid making sudden stops in order to protect your brakes from excessive wear and tear. Make sure to give yourself plenty of distance between you and the car in front of you so you can brake gradually when needed.

9. Don’t Drag Your Brakes: Dragging your brakes can cause unnecessary wear and tear. This happens when you keep your foot on the brake pedal after slowing down to a certain speed, instead of releasing it completely. Make sure to take your foot off the brake when you’re not applying pressure in order to avoid any premature damage.

10. Don’t Ignore Warning Signs: If your car is making any strange noises or behaving oddly when you apply the brakes, it’s time to get them checked. Ignoring warning signs can lead to more serious problems in the future, so be sure to take your car in for a brake inspection at the first sign of trouble.

Good Brake Care Will Ensure Safer and More Enjoyable Driving

Following these tips can help keep your brakes in optimal condition, allowing you to enjoy worry-free driving and avoid costly repairs. Be sure to stay on top of brake maintenance so that you can feel confident your car will respond when you need it to. Speak with a licensed auto mechanic for personalized advice about car maintenance.

Are you looking for a dependable automotive mechanic for help with your car or truck issues? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional brake repair and automotive service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, or schedule service, today.

Top 4 Signs of Failing Car Brakes

Posted on October 10, 2022 by autorepair

It’s no secret that driving can be dangerous. But did you know that being a safe driver doesn’t just mean being a good driver? It also means keeping your car in good condition. That’s right – making sure your car is regularly serviced and that you keep up with basic maintenance can go a long way towards keeping you safe on the road.

Of course, there are other factors that contribute to safe driving, but maintaining your car is a good place to start. So, if you’re looking to be a safer driver, don’t forget about your car! One of the most important areas of focus are the car brakes. After all, you need them to stop and control the speed of your vehicle!

How are your car brakes doing? Could they use some service or repair? Do you need car brake replacement? Continue below to learn the top 4 signs of failing car brakes, plus where to get trusted and affordable car brake repair near you.

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4 Common Car Brake Problems

One of the most important components of your car is the brakes. Without them, you wouldn’t be able to safely stop your vehicle. That’s why it’s so important to be aware of the signs of failing car brakes. By catching brake problems early, you can avoid a potentially dangerous situation and keep your car running smoothly.

Here are four signs that your car brakes may be failing:

❶ Your brake pedal feels spongy or soft when you press it. This is often a sign of air in the brake lines, which can reduce the effectiveness of your brakes.

❷ You hear squealing or grinding noises when you brake. This can indicate that your brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced.

❸ Your car takes longer than usual to stop. If your brakes are losing their effectiveness, it will take longer for your car to come to a stop.

❹ Your brake warning light is on. This is usually an indication that there is something wrong with your brakes and you should have them checked by a professional as soon as possible.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your brakes checked out by a qualified car mechanic in Indianapolis. Ignoring brake problems can lead to serious accidents and injuries, so it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

The Link Between Car Care and Brake Maintenance

It is well known that driving safely is the number one priority on the road. But what many people don’t realize is that car maintenance is just as important in keeping you safe on the road. A properly maintained car will have tires with good tread, good fuel functionality, functioning lights, and most importantly, brakes that work effectively. This minimizes the chances of you getting into an accident. It is also important to have your car regularly serviced at a licensed Indianapolis auto repair shop so that any potential problems can be caught early on. This way, you can avoid breakdowns or other issues that could put you in danger while driving. So, remember that safe driving starts with a well-maintained car. Make sure to take care of your vehicle and it will help keep you safe on the road.

Are you looking for professional and affordable brake service near you? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for ASE-licensed car brake service and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

How to Use Engine Braking to Extend the Life of Car Brakes

Posted on April 27, 2022 by autorepair

If you haven’t heard of a car care strategy known as engine braking, you will be glad you came across this blog. Extending the components and systems within your vehicle ultimately extends its life. And engine braking will contribute to this objective. Continue below to learn what engine braking is, why it is beneficial, and most importantly, how to do it!

Engine Braking Basics

How do you reduce your speed when driving? You use the brake pedal, of course! Pressing on the brake is the go-to instinct of all drivers who want to slow their vehicles down or come to a stop. But did you know that routinely pressing the brake can impact your car’s performance and safety? Fortunately, there is more than one way to brake. Enter engine braking.

Engine braking is a driving technique that slows your car down by simply releasing your foot from the brake pedal, then shifting the gears down, one by one. This can be done in both manual and automatic transmission vehicles.

In a manual transmission vehicle, after you take your foot off the brake, keep it off, and then shift down through each gear until it is time to stop completely or gas back up. In automatic vehicles, release your foot from the pedal, then let the car slow down on its own. It is not recommended to use engine braking too often in automatic transmission vehicles.

Benefits of Engine Braking

Engine braking is an easy-to-do driving strategy that can extend the life of your car brakes and improve your vehicle’s overall efficiency. How does it work? In plain language, engine braking limits the amount of airflow sent to the engine, which causes the engine to decrease the speed of the wheel revolutions. There are many more benefits of engine braking. It reduces the rate of wear and tear on your car’s braking system and engine, especially in the case of long descents down steep roads or hills. Engine braking also increases your fuel economy, giving you better gas mileage. And, although not entirely true for automatic vehicles, engine braking is not harmful to your manual transmission so long as you do not let the RPMs go close to or above the red line on the dashboard gauge.

How to Engine Brake Safely

Engine braking is more than just taking your foot off the brake pedal and down shifting through each gear. There are some other good driving practices you must follow to protect your engine and transmission.

First, never shift down to a low gear when you are still driving fast. High speeds are not conducive to safe engine braking at low gears.

Also, it is very important to go through each gear. Avoid skipping a gear, as this can put a lot of strain on your transmission and engine.

Last, engine braking is a great driving tool, but not one to be overused. Too much engine braking can have adverse effects on your car.

Are you looking for professional car brake repair or maintenance in Indy? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional, ASE-licensed car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Check out our auto shop coupons, too!

Why Did My Brake Warning Light Come On in My Car?

Posted on October 29, 2021 by autorepair

Although the check engine light is the usual suspect, your vehicle is equipped with all sorts of other indicator lamps and warning sensors. One such indicator lamp that can switch on when something’s off is your car’s brake warning light. Continue reading to learn more about brake warning lights, including why yours is illuminated and what you can do to resolve the underlying issue.

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Brake Warning Lights Versus Bulb Checks

have most vehicles come with one brake warning light on the dashboard, but other vehicles may have to break warning lights on the dashboard. When you first turned the ignition in your car, all life in your dashboard should flash as a test, also referred to as a bulb check, to ensure that the electrical system is operating properly. So, do not panic if you see the break warning light appear as you start your car.

Keep in mind that if the break warning light does not illuminate when you start your car, you could have a bulb out. In this case, you would simply need to bring your car into local Indianapolis automotive repairs shop to have the break warning light bulb replaced. However, if the break warning light remains illuminated as you drive, it is important to diagnose the issue.

Top 2 Causes for an Illuminated Car Brake Warning Light

So, why is your brake warning light on right now? Well, it could be due to a variety of brake-related reasons. However, the two primary reasons why brake warning lights come on have to do with the emergency brake and brake fluid pressure.

⛯ Emergency Brake – If the emergency brake is on in your vehicle, your car sensor system will illuminate the break warning light. All you have to do to resolve this problem is to turn your emergency brake off. However, if the brake illumination continues it could be due to brake fluid and pressure problems.

⛯ Brake Fluid and Pressure – If one half of your braking system loses pressure, your brake indicator lamp will switch on. Solving this issue is more complex than turning off the emergency brake. In most cases, you’ll need to bring your car into a licensed Indianapolis mechanic to have the issue diagnosed and resolved.

Car Brake Pressure Repair is an Automotive Emergency

If your car’s braking system is low on pressure, it is not safe to drive your vehicle. If you do drive your vehicle this condition, it is important to use the emergency brake when you do park the car. Brake pressure should be equal on both sides of your braking system, so if one side loses a bit of pressure, it can lead to hazardous driving conditions. Brake pressure loss typically occurs as a result of a leak in the system or low hydraulic fluid.

Anti-Lock Braking System Lights

Most modern-day vehicles are designed with anti-lock braking systems, which appears as a “ABS” on the dashboard. If your anti-lock braking system light illuminates on your car’s dashboard, it could mean that there is an underlying problem. When this happens, you are still safe to drive your vehicle, but your anti-lock braking will not work. It is still important to bring your car into a local Indianapolis auto shop to have it repaired.

Are you looking for a skilled and qualified mechanic to help you with your automotive brake maintenance and service needs? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana at economy-friendly prices. We offer coupons and discounts, year round!

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How a Car Brake Inspection Will Promote Safer Summer Driving

Posted on June 10, 2021 by autorepair

Although life would be a little easier if your vehicles didn’t require so much routine care and maintenance, our own safety and financial soundness relies on regular car care. When it comes to your vehicle’s brake lines, nothing could be more important to check on a regular basis. After all, the most important quality to a car is arguably its ability to stop. Safety and assurance are two key factors as to why drivers of all ages are continuously encouraged to get regular inspections and maintenance for car brakes and brake lines.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about automotive brake care, and how a quick brake inspection can set you up for safer summer driving.

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About Automotive Brake Repair and Maintenance

Car brakes, just like various other vehicular components, need to be replaced to avoid further complications and damages. Neglecting to care for your brakes can lead to more serious and costly repairs. Brake pads, rotors, hydraulic clamps, fluid lines, and more all make up a modern day vehicle braking system. Be sure to have your car or truck brakes inspected and addressed before the summer road takes you away for the season!

Here are the most important factors to consider, and areas to inspect, when preparing for automotive brake maintenance and repair.

☑ Brake Pads
☑ Brake Rotors
☑ Brake Lines
☑ Brake Fluid
☑ Hydraulic Clamps
☑ Bolts

If you take a knee and peer into the hubcap of your vehicle’s wheel, you can visually see the brake pads and rotor. The rotor is the flat rounded metal disk, and the brake pad is the cushion-like rounded pad the sits against the rotor. These should be replaced every few months, depending on the amount of driving you do on a daily basis. Consult with a licensed mechanic for accurate industry advice, service, and assistance.

Address Brake Problems Upon Detection

In between routine factory scheduled maintenance, you will need to stay on top of any repairs you might need. In order to determine the condition of your car brakes without being a professional mechanic, simply look for some common signs. When your car brakes are in faulty condition, they will likely warn you somehow. For example, when car brakes squeak when you apply pressure, this is an indication that your brake pads are wearing thin. But it can also mean a variety of other things as well. This is where a professional mechanic can help; they can accurately diagnose any brake problem.

Do your car or truck brakes need some professional attention? Contact Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for dealership-level car brake repair in Indianapolis, Indiana. Request a free estimate, today.

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How Often Should I Bleed My Car Brakes?

Posted on December 9, 2019 by autorepair

Routine car maintenance is the most effective method for increased your vehicle’s safety, performance, and longevity. Most car owners are familiar with the standard factory recommended car maintenance schedules, including fluid changes, tire rotations, inspections, tune-ups, and more. But there is a vital part of routine car maintenance that is not as familiar to most people, so it is commonly overlooked. We are talking about having your car brakes bled. Bleeding your car brakes is very important, and should be done according to your vehicle’s maintenance needs.

Continue reading to learn more about bleeding car brakes, and when you should have yours done.

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Basics of Bleeding Car Brakes

To get straight to the point, automotive service experts recommend having your car brakes bled every two to three years. You can choose to have a licensed mechanic perform the service along with your scheduled brake services, or you can try to do it yourself. But keep in mind, the latter is not recommended for those without experience. Not only can it be quite messy, it can be dangerous.

So why do you need to bleed car brakes on a routine basis like this? The answer is air. Overtime, small amounts of air begin to enter the brake lines. This changes the way your brakes perform. And if too much air gets inside the brake lines, it can lead to complete brake failure at any given time. You can tell your brake lines may have air in them if they feel spongy or squishy when you apply pressure to them.

The most common reasons why air gets inside brake lines are leaks or worn brake pads. In other cases, air can also enter brake lines during a certain types of car service, or even result from repeated slamming of the brakes. Regardless of how your brake lines acquired air, it is important to have them bled to remove the damaging air and bring your braking system back to a safe and efficient condition.

When to Replace Car Brakes

If you notice that it takes longer to come to a complete stop than it did before, or if you have to apply more pressure to the brake pedal to get the car to stop, then your vehicle needs attention. This often happens when the pads against your brakes wear thin, reducing the amount of pressure applied to the rotor. In this case, you may also hear squeaking noises caused by the rotor and bare brake pad rubbing against each other. This is a highly dangerous problem that should be repaired immediately. Brake failure can result in fatal and serious car accidents.

Another way to tell if your car brakes need repaired, replaced, or serviced is if your steering wheel is shaky. If it wobbles and vibrates back and forth while you drive, it is an indication that the rotors are damaged. These are usually changed or replaced along with the pads because they have similar life-expectancy. See our blog, “How Do I Know When My Car Needs Brake Repair?” to learn more signs of brake deterioration.

Trusted Indianapolis Car Maintenance

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for professional car 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.

August is Brake Safety Awareness Month!

Posted on August 5, 2016 by autorepair

Brake systems are one of the most important priorities in terms of driver and vehicular safety. Without properly-functioning car brakes, drivers, passengers, and even pedestrians are at risk of injury or death. For this reason, the Car Care Council has officially marked August as a month for brake safety awareness! Brake Safety Awareness month should be a time spent learning about how to improve the quality and performance of your brakes, and how to increase their longevity and durability.

Ask your trusted car mechanic for brake maintenance and safety advice. Otherwise, continue reading to learn about car brake service, repair, safety, and more!

Routine Brake Maintenance

As far as regular, recommended factory maintenance for brake systems, your trusted mechanic should have it covered. They can tell you exactly what your car needs by inspecting its condition and comparing it to your personal driving habits. You may also refer to your vehicle’s owners’ manual for factory suggestions.

Regular scheduled maintenance for car brakes include:

• Brake Inspections (Lights, hoses, lines, electrical, etc.)
• Brake Cleaning
• Brake Fluid Replenishment
• Vehicle Alignment
• Tire Rotation and Balance
• Brake Pad Replacement
• Brake Rotor Replacement
• Test Drive

Signs of Brake Problems

When you drive your vehicle, it is important to always stay alert to warning signs of brake failure or problems. For instance, if you hear a metal-on-metal screeching noise every time you press on the brakes, it could mean that your brake pads are worn and need replaced. You should take care of any brake problems at the first sign of trouble. Additional warning signs include scratching or squeaking noises, squealing brakes, hard-to-press brake pedals, loose brake pedals, slow braking, steering wheel pulling to one direction, burnt rubber smell, dashboard warning light, check engine light, and more. It is strongly encouraged to take your vehicle in for a professional inspection right away if your brakes experience any changes or irregularities.

Northeast Auto Service

Northeast Auto Service 317-475-1846

Call Northeast Auto Service at 317-475-1846 for brake repair and service in Indianapolis, Indiana. We are ASE certified car mechanics with over 30 years of experience. We service and repair all make and model vehicles, and at the most competitive prices in town! As a family owned and operated auto shop, you can trust us for honest and fair prices. But we also offer automotive service coupons and discounts for additional savings! Call 317-475-1846 to request a free estimate for car brake service in
Indianapolis, IN today.