STOP & get the most out of your brakes.

By Eric J. Hamilton
Posted Sunday, March 20, 2005

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Tips about your brakes & how to get the most out of them.

Watch out for that truck!

Sometimes panic stop situations occur and our vehicle is not prepared. That's when the insurance company gets involved.

Most brake failure problems can be avoided with simple maintenance procedures, better care and knowledge of your brake system.

First thing to do to help you and your vehicle get along is to find a good repair shop that you feel comfortable with.

Keep to a schedule of maintenance for your vehicle (the manufacturer has one that is a good guideline to go by). Any reputable repair shop will also have some type of electronic catalog, which they can pull up or print out a copy of recommended service items at certain intervals.

Now specifically regarding the brakes:

1: Not all noises from brakes are a sign that there is a problem, however you should make time as soon as you hear one, to get the brakes inspected.

2: Most brake problems come on very gradually and usually aren't noticed until failure. You should have your brakes checked every 6000 to 10000 miles. Even if you don't hear a noise.

3: If your local oil change place has told you that they had to add brake fluid to your reservoir - find out how much. Then go directly to a repair shop and have your brakes inspected. Generally the manufacturers design brakes to be closed hydraulic system and when the fluid gets down the level which requires adding...there is a reason. The brakes could be close to worn out, there could be a leak or it may only be a matter of adjustment, but it requires attention.

4: If your brake pedal feels different in any way (Soft, Spongy, Hard or Dragging) that is sign that something is definitely not right. One thing about brake problems is they never get better on their own.

5: If your vehicle begins to stop differently (longer distance required, swerving or pulling to one side, jerking, bouncing or diving) this is another sign service is probably due.

6: If your BRAKE light or ABS light is on, you need service. These lights are there for a reason. Even though you think your brakes are working the same as they always have, they are NOT.

I know I wouldn't want find out what was making the warning light come on after the accident investigation. By the way, if your ABS light is on, that means that your brake system is not operating the way was designed to. Yes, it still works, but not at the efficiency level that was intended to stop your vehicle.

Now some pointers on repairs and replacements

1: Brake dust is graphite used in brake pads. The really cheap brake pads have a lot of graphite in them used as filler. It costs less then real friction material and is a great quieting agent. Almost all brake pads have some amount of graphite in them to help keep them quiet. So some brake dust is inevitable. You don't want to go cheap on brakes. Go cheap on seat covers, not brakes. Good quality brake pads are an investment in your future and the lives of all your passengers. The manufactures know this and have upgraded brake designs and pads to the point that 40% of them now roll off the assembly line with the most expensive brake pads on the market, Ceramics. Not all vehicles require Ceramic pads and not all vehicles will accommodate ceramics. For those of you familiar with NASCAR Racing you probably recognize the name. Ceramics are the brakes they have used for years. Most brake companies offer multiple grades of pads "good-better-best" it is always best to discuss your specific needs with your mechanic when it comes to choosing between them. Contact your trusted repair professional to find out which brake pad will suit your needs best.

2: Brake fluid should be changed. Manufacturers (vehicle and brake fluid) recommend that the brake fluid be changed a minimum of every 2 years or 24,000 miles. It is very important to have your brake fluid changed. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. The longer brake fluid is left unchanged, the more moisture it will absorb. This moisture lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid. When brake fluid boils, it turns to a vapor, causing the brake pedal to fall to the floor. Saturated brake fluid will cause premature failure of the brake system components. Therefore, it is essential to have your brake fluid changed regularly.

3: Hydraulic components usually stay in good condition if the fluid is maintained. If any of the hydraulic components (master cylinder, metal lines, proportioning valve, brake hoses, wheel cylinders and calipers) begin to leak they should be replaced as soon as noticed.

EXTEND THE LIFE

1: Be sure to pay attention to the instructions given by the repair shop when your new brakes are installed. There is a break-in period that requires specific attention for a short period of time. Correct break-in can extend the life of brake pads by up to 50%.

2: Try to avoid panic stops. I know this sounds silly but it bears mentioning. Something as simple as paying attention so as to avoid a situation that would increase the potential for a panic stop is really important.

3: Try to avoid going through deep water when the brakes are hot. This also applies to cleaning. It can be damaging to rotor and pad material if you spray cold water directly on them immediately after driving.

4: Don't be late. Another almost too simple tip, leave on time so your not in such a hurry. Jackrabbit starts and nose-diving stops can really decrease the life expectancy of any brake system.

5: Finally - Listen to your vehicle and follow proper maintenance schedules.

Drive Safe. Eric J. Hamilton

Eric and Brenda Hamilton own Hwy 9 Auto Repair Center in Cumming, GA. Click HERE to visit thier website