Maintaining the vehicle is important to do, all year long. One area to inspect is the brake system. The brakes are important because it helps to slow down and stop your vehicle. There are many reasons why a vehicle might need to have the brakes tested or adjusted after you have been driving it. Road conditions affect the life of the brake almost as much as how you drive the vehicle. People who drive fast and hit a pothole can jar the brake pads or rotors so that they do not fit properly against the tire. It could cause scratching noises or even damage to the parts behind the tire that keep it stopping regularly. If you notice an issue with the vehicle and brake system, make sure to bring it in as soon as possible. This way you can help prevent a more serious issue from happening.
The Brakes should be Checked Regularly
Gravel roads can do damage to the brake system of your vehicle. All of those gravel pieces that fly up because you are probably going a little too fast can jump up and get in to the brake pads too, causing a grinding sound until it is knocked out. Hopefully it falls out or else that gravel could do serious and permanent damage to any of the brake system pieces. If you suspect the brakes have gravel, stones or other debris in them, take them in to a shop and have an ASE master mechanic peek in for a look. It is better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the brakes. When you have them checked right away they might only need to be cleaned out instead of replaced, which would be a much more affordable option.
Issues with the Brake Lines
There could be a problem develop with the brake line or the brakes at any time for one of several reasons. The conditions on the road can be jarring on the components, causing them to come out of alignment with the tire. For instance, a large pothole or a gravel road with divots can wreak havoc on the braking system, not to mention the suspension system, of the car. When you take a big hit with a pothole, slowly check the brakes after and make sure they function correctly. If they seem soft, make sure to schedule an appointment to bring the vehicle in.
When the Brakes should be Replaced
Most often, brake system parts cannot repaired or fixed, they need to be replaced. The brake pads wear out because of the friction of being rubbed against the inside of the tire in order to get it to stop. Brand new brake pads are the only answer to keeping your vehicle stopping on a dime all of the time. The brake rotors and calipers can sometimes be fixed if they only get bent a little bit. Having the brake system checked can help ensure a safe and reliable ride.
