What does a brake service include?
At Kevin's Autos, we understand that your vehicle's braking system is one of the most critical components for your safety on the road. Regular brake service is essential to ensure that your brakes function effectively and reliably. In this article, we will explore what a typical brake service includes, helping you understand the importance of maintaining this vital system.
Key Components of Brake Service
A comprehensive brake service typically involves several key components to ensure your braking system is in optimal condition. Here’s what you can expect during a brake service:
- Inspection of Brake Pads and Shoes: The brake pads and shoes are crucial for stopping your vehicle. During the service, we will check their thickness and condition to determine if they need replacement.
- Brake Rotor Inspection: The rotors are the discs that the brake pads clamp down on to stop the vehicle. We will inspect them for wear, warping, or damage, which can affect braking performance.
- Fluid Check and Replacement: Brake fluid is essential for transferring force from the brake pedal to the brakes. We will check the fluid level and quality, replacing it if necessary to ensure proper hydraulic function.
- Caliper Inspection: The brake calipers hold the brake pads and squeeze them against the rotors. We will inspect the calipers for leaks or damage that could impair braking efficiency.
- Brake Line Inspection: The brake lines carry brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes. We will check for any signs of wear, leaks, or corrosion that could lead to brake failure.
- Test Drive: After completing the service, we will take your vehicle for a test drive to ensure that the brakes are functioning correctly and to identify any potential issues.
Why Regular Brake Service is Important
Regular brake service is not just about maintaining performance; it’s also about safety. Here are a few reasons why you should prioritize brake maintenance:
- Enhanced Safety: Properly functioning brakes are crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
- Cost-Effective: Regular maintenance can prevent more significant issues down the line, saving you money on costly repairs.
- Improved Performance: Well-maintained brakes provide better stopping power and a smoother driving experience.
- Increased Longevity: Regular brake service can extend the life of your braking components, ensuring your vehicle remains reliable.
At Kevin's Autos, we are committed to providing top-notch brake services to keep you safe on the road. If you suspect any issues with your brakes or it's been a while since your last service, don’t hesitate to contact us for a thorough inspection and service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a brake service worth it?
Brake maintenance and servicing are just as essential as oil changes and tire swaps. Ensuring that your brakes are adequately serviced can be the difference between a life-or-death situation and play a significant role in road safety.
Do I really need brake service?
Many people assume a brake service, brake replacement, really, is only necessary when the brake pads or brake shoes have worn to one or two millimeters, but that's only half the story. It might take two years for brakes to wear out, while the rest of the system rusts away or seizes permanently.
How to tell if rotors are bad?
Some common symptoms of bad rotors include vibration or pulsation in the steering wheel, high-pitched squealing noise when braking, shaking steering wheel, brake pedal pulsing, vehicle taking a long time to stop, loud bangs while braking, large edges on the outer part of the brake rotor, and scratch marks on the rotor.
Does a full brake job include rotors?
A complete brake service involves replacing both the pads and rotors.
What would be checked on a brake servicing procedure?
Checklist: Brake System Inspection
- Test drive the car.
- Inspect the tires.
- Check the vehicle's suspension system.
- Look for leaking, cracked or damaged hoses.
- If needed, replace any leaking or damaged steel lines.
- Replace any leaking or damaged calipers.
- Check brake master cylinder for leaks.
- Test the brake pedal.
What is considered a service brake?
: an automobile brake usually foot-operated that is used in ordinary driving compare emergency brake.
How many hours does a full brake job take?
between four and six hours
A complete brake job has an estimated labor time of anywhere between four and six hours, depending on several factors. It involves a thorough inspection of the entire braking system and its parts. Mechanics usually check for leaks, corroded brake lines, seized pistons, and other worn-out brake hardware.
What is included in a full brake service?
WHAT COMPLETE BRAKE SERVICE SHOULD INCLUDE:
- ABS Sensor. If the ABS sensor is lit, a diagnostic will be run to check the anti-lock system.
- Brake Fluid Level.
- Brake Pad Replacement.
- Brake Rotors or Discs.
- Brake Sensor.
- Lines and Master Cylinder.
How much should a full brake job cost?
Each aftermarket rotor costs an average of $30 to $75. Labor to service brakes can run from $90 to $200 per hour. Brake service generally runs approximately $200 to $500 per axle at a professional center. Calipers are typically the most difficult and expensive aspect of the braking system to service.
What is involved in brake servicing?
Brake Lines and Hoses: Inspected for leaks, cracks, and wear. Calipers: Checked for proper operation and signs of wear or damage. Brake Hardware: Springs, pins, and other hardware are inspected and replaced if worn out. Parking Brake: Adjusted to ensure it holds the vehicle securely.
