A recent survey showed that Canadians spend an average of 18 days, or 432 hours behind the wheel each year! That works out to about 8 hours and 22 minutes in your car per week. With all that time spent, we get used to the sounds and sensations of our vehicles. But do you know what failing brakes sound like? Do you know what they feel like?
If your car is more than 4 years old, there is an 84% chance that your brakes will fail before your next scheduled check in*.
That is why it's important to have your brakes inspected regularly as the kilometers add up. Disc brake systems are comprised of calipers, pads and rotors. Wear and tear to each of these parts depends on factors such as driving habits and conditions (stopping and starting, city vs. country roads or highways), driving environment (mountainous inclines/declines, road conditions, weather elements) and brake pad composition.
The good news is that Super Tune & Brake offers FREE brake inspections! Walk-ins are welcome, or you can book online below.
Not sure if you need your inspection yet? Here are some of the most common signs your brakes are worn out. Let's address the sounds first.
Squeaking and Squealing sounds could indicate that your brake pads need to be replaced. There are small metal tabs attached to the side of each pad. These tabs will only make contact when the friction material has worn down.
Harsh Grinding sounds often indicate uneven wear and tear, leading to a disintegrated brake pad or pads on one side of your vehicle. Loud grinding could also be from debris caught between your brake pad and rotor.
If you're hearing a problem, it's serious enough to be addressed immediately.
Now let's look at the way failing brakes typically feel.
Your brake pedal will begin to feel Spongy (less firm). Functionally, you will begin to notice a reduction in stopping power. During quick stops a spongy pedal won't respond as rapidly as you are used to - meaning there will be a delay between your foot contacting the pedal and the corresponding brake response. During prolonged braking, you will notice it takes multiple pumps or an uncomfortable amount of pedal pressure to finally come to a complete stop. Your pedal may also "hop" up and down as you press it.
Bad brakes may also cause your vehicle to Pull to one side or Skid as your rear wheels lock up. If braking causes Vibrations and Jittering, this could also be an indication that your brake pads are warped and malfunctioning.
If you are feeling problems, the situation has become dangerous.
If any of these issues describe your vehicle, don't waste time, book your Free Brake Inspection today! If you need new brakes, at Super Tune & Brake we offer Life Time Brakes with an Unlimited Mileage Guarantee. This means that your brakes are guaranteed for as long as you own the vehicle.
Follow this link to learn more about our incredible Life Time Brakes guarantee.
Want to know more about what is included in our brake installation service? Check out this detailed article on our service.
*Fail - Manitoba Safety Standards Examination as established in the Highway Traffic Act regulations and is based on the average vehicle traveling 20,000 km per year in stop and go traffic