The Maintenance of a Car Braking System

Understanding the Brake System

Brake lines in a vehicle are filled with confined fluid so that the act of applying pressure to the brake pedal translates into pressure through a piston in the master cylinder, and then transmits to each of the four brakes. The master cylinder acts as a container for the fluid, which has two connections: one to the front wheels and one to the rear wheels.

What About Brake Fluid?

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, so it not only absorbs moisture, but also attracts it.

A major part of brake system maintenance is flushing the system. Mavis recommends brake flushes at 30,000 miles, or sooner, based on the manufacturers recommendation. This act alone could save vehicle owners much money, because complete brake system repairs and replacements can be a significant cost.

Recognizing the Signs of Bad Brakes

Unusually abrupt or slow braking can indicate issues with the servo brake or the amount of brake fluid available. Drivers will hear a slight chirping sound if the brake pads or discs are worn. If your vehicle leaks fluid in the road or driveway when it slows down, this often indicates a bad brake pump.

Tires are, of course, a contributing factor to the poor or satisfactory functions of a brake system. Checking the wear and alignment of tires can prevent poor brake adjustment or bad brake discs.

Recognizing the Influence of External Factors

The weather can have a tremendous effect on the stopping ability and distance of your brakes. Drivers should always practice safe braking and stopping distance in inclement weather. This includes recognizing the state of the road and the weather that may impact driving ability.

As a significant power and control tool, tires work in conjunction with the brake system and largely determine how effective your brakes are. Your tire's ability to adhere to the road in snow or ice is limited, and only slightly better in light rain or on a dusty road.

Regular Brake Maintenance

• Check the level of your brake fluid often, and replace it every 30,000 miles or manufacturers recommendation if sooner.

• Any time you are working on your vehicle or checking the brakes, observing the condition of brake pads is essential. The life span is typically 30,000 miles, but this varies from car to car.

• Be sure to check that your brake lights are working. More often than not, replacing the bulb solves this problem.

Choosing the Right Tires

Your tires on your vehicle also have an impact on brake performance. Regardless of the climate you live in, all weather tires are generally effective in very light moisture or on roads that may need a bit of paving.

Checking and maintaining your brakes is essential to your vehicle’s performance. By following the tips mentioned above, you will be in a position to recognize potential brake issues quicker.

Remember that your local Mavis Tires and Brakes is your go to place for brake and tire service, as well as all of your automotive needs.