Brake Checks

When It’s Time to Have Your Brakes Checked

No matter how far you’re going or where, you’re going to be using your car’s brakes, so it’s important that they work quickly and correctly when you need them. Your very life may depend on it. So how long do your brakes last, anyway? And what are some of the most common warning signs that you may need to bring your vehicle in for brake repair or service at Seminole, Florida’s premier auto repair center, The Shop?

While an exact number is impossible, brakes typically last around 50,000 miles. However, you might be able to get as many as 80,000 miles out of them with careful attention, driving, and maintenance. Why the big disparity in numbers? Many factors go into the life of your brakes, first and foremost, how you drive. Suppose you’re one of those drivers who have to use their brakes a lot, maybe because you live in a city where traffic is always an issue or because you like to get places a little quicker than the average person. In that case, you’re putting more wear and tear on your brakes. If you live somewhere with steeply graded roads like the mountains or enjoy off-roading in your vehicle, again, you will need a brake check sooner.

How do you know when to get your vehicle in for a brake inspection? While the experienced auto repair technicians at The Shop will give your brakes a lookover during any regularly scheduled routine maintenance appointment, there are some additional signs to look out for that might mean a quicker trip in for service.

First and foremost, when you brake, how quickly and smoothly does your car respond? Is there a delay, or does your car shake? Both are signs that it might be time to consider visiting a technician for some brake maintenance. When you brake with the windows up in your car, can you hear shrieking or squealing, or even worse, a metallic grinding or scraping sound? These noises can mean your brake pads have worn dangerously thin or even completely away. You could be doing serious and permanent damage to the brake discs by continuing to drive around that way!

Even if you don’t hear or feel anything unusual in your vehicle when braking if you’ve noticed sluggish response time or slipping when you apply the brakes, it’s time to bring your car down to the experienced and professional team at The Shop for some brake repair- they’ll do what it takes to restore your vehicle to crisp braking performance and help you increase the lifespan of your brakes in the process. So come in today or call to schedule your brake service appointment – your car will thank you.