Believe it or not, brakes weren’t always a standardized inclusion in cars. In fact, the first-ever car, which was produced by Karl Benz more than a century ago, had a top-speed of only 10 miles per hour, and, for this reason, some of the earliest brake systems were comprised of nothing more than a crude timber wedge and a lever to grind it against a wheel.
However, brakes are now fundamental safety implements that protect your life every time you turn the key. Therefore, it is critical that you become an expert on when to schedule a professional auto brake repair in Columbia, MO.
Understanding the Mechanical Makeup of Your Brakes
Before expounding the indicators of a pending auto brake repair requirement, you should take a moment to understand how vehicular brake systems function:
- If you take a peek behind your automobile’s rims, you’ll see a polished metallic circle facing the outside of the wheel.
- This component is referred to as a disc brake, and it is connected to a very durable clamp called a brake pad.
- When you press down on your brake pedal, the pad meets the disc and utilizes friction to slow down the rotation of your wheels.
- Pads and discs are manufactured to get very hot during operation; racecars, for example, have disc brakes that actually burn bright red during competition.
Thus, the onus is on you to pay attention to your brakes, as well as the warning signs signifying that you need an auto brake repair.
When to Visit Your Local Repair Shop
You should automatically book an auto brake repair review every 8,000 to 15,000 miles, or when you notice some of the issues shown below:
- You have to press the brake pedal much harder to activate your pads
- You hear audible squealing when turning or decelerating
- Your car begins drifting left or right when you brake
- Check engine light flashes on a daily basis
As soon as you start feeling uneasy or as if something is amiss, be sure to swing by a certified repair center, such as Dents Unlimited, for cost-conscious fix.
