Brakes are critical to the safe operation of your vehicle.
Because they are critical to the safe operation of your vehicle it is crucial to have your brakes checked as part of your routine maintenance, as well as whenever you suspect any issues. We check them as part of our complimentary 24-point inspection, free of charge.
How brakes work
When you press the brake pedal, it generates hydraulic pressure in the master cylinder, which then flows through the hydraulic lines to the brake calipers. The calipers force the pads to press on the rotors, resulting in friction that slows the vehicle down.
Common wear and tear
Brakes are subject to normal wear and tear and eventually require replacement. It is essential to avoid reaching the “metal-to-metal” point, which often entails additional, more expensive repairs. We recommend pad replacement at 2-3 mm of pad thickness. We no longer “turn” rotors, machine them to make them flat and smooth again. Most rotors today are vented to keep them cooler. For this reason, we recommend rotor replacement whenever replacing the pads.
Factors that influence wear:
- Driving habits (e.g. riding your brakes while going downhill in the mountains can cause rotor warpage, necessitating replacement)
- Operating conditions
- Vehicle type and weight
- The materials and quality of brake components – we almost always recommend ceramic brake pads to improve longevity.
Signs that your brakes need attention:
- Car pulls to one side during braking
- Brake pedal or steering wheel pulsates when brakes are applied
- “Mushy” brake pedal or pedal nearing the floor
- Noise when depressing the brake pedal
- Frequent need to add brake fluid to the reservoir
If you notice any of these symptoms it is time to get your brakes checked.
At Harmony Automotive, we offer a comprehensive range of brake services, including:
- Brake pads and rotors replacement
- Brake fluid testing and flushing
- Brake system bleeding
- ABS Systems repair
- Master Cylinders repair or replacement
