Brake Safety & Tips for Extending the Lifespan of Your Vehicle’s Braking System

Our Supertech Auto North Vancouver customers often ask us about their vehicles’ braking systems and to provide them with some brake tips to extend their lifespan. We understand these concerns since your vehicle’s braking system is one of its most important safety features. Neglecting your braking system or improper maintenance can lead to brake failure and risk and your life as well as the life of your passengers and any other individuals sharing the road. It’s highly recommended that when we realise there is an issue, we address it immediately. However, it is best that we have our brakes and tires inspected and properly maintained on a regular basis in order to ensure our safety.  From brake pads to the master cylinder, every component is vital and needs to be working properly. Here at Supertech Auto Repair North Vancouver, we take your vehicle’s safety seriously.

Warning Signs Indicating Your Brakes Need Service or Replacement

If you hear squeaking or feel less pressure when you brake, you need to get your brakes inspected by a professional right away. You can trust that our Red Seal certified technicians can handle all your brake repairs.

Most Common Warning Signs & Brake Problems 

  1. If your dashboard indicator brake light is activated, it should never be ignored since it could be alerting you about a serious problem.
  2. Noises, when you brake, are an indication vital brake parts like pads may need to be replaced.
  3. Vibrations or shaking when pressing the brakes may indicate that your brake rotors have uneven surfaces or your brake caliper is not releasing properly.
  4. If you press on the brake pedal and it feels softer or reaches the floor mat in order to stop the car, there may be issues with the master cylinder. Look for leaking fluid from the brake system.
  5. If your car pulls to one side when you brake then you may have issues with a brake hose or your calipers applying uneven pressure.
  6. A burning smell while driving can be the result of overheated brakes or clutch. In such cases, you need to pull over in a safe place, check your parking brake and braking fluid before you experience a brake failure.

Tips to Extend the Lifespan of Your Brakes

High Performance Brakes on red MercedesAlthough it is important to have your braking system properly maintained by qualified and experienced technicians like the Red Seal Certified technicians at Supertech Auto, you also have to be aware of a number of factors that can affect your braking and extend the lifespan of your vehicle’s braking system. Here are five important things to keep in mind:

  1. Keep an eye on your tires’ air pressure since it affects your driving and braking effectiveness.
  2. Drive with caution on wet or icy roads since your stopping distance can increase 10 – 30%
  3. Hard braking should be avoided especially at high speeds since it wears down your brakes and increases the possibility of losing control of your vehicle
  4. Avoid unnecessary brake taps by only using your right foot to brake
  5. You should coast before you brake to reduce the speed and wear and tear of your brakes

If you are searching for exceptional brake service and repairs, contact us online or call us to book your appointment. We’ve built our company by removing the frustration from auto repair.