At CAR TECH we ask you why you think
certain services are needed. When you come in, we may ask
questions on why you need a certain service. We do this to help
determine what type of service your vehicle really needs.
For example: your car's steering wheel vibrates when you apply
the brakes. Many times the problem is not wheel balance or wheel
alignment, but you may need to have your brakes checked.
Brake rotors must be smooth, clean and
flat to provide optimum braking. If the finish is too rough,
scarred, warped or glazed, the pads are going to chatter and
vibrate every time they make contact with the brake rotor. And
if the brake rotor is worn too thin (especially un-vented
rotors), the reduced mass of the metal will be less able to
dampen the normal vibration of the braking as well as dissipate
heat. So if the rotors are not in A-1 condition, they should be
resurfaced. Most cars have rotors on the front wheels with rear
brake drums. More and more cars are being manufactured with
four-wheel disks as standard or optional equipment. Once the
rotors are resurfaced, steering wheel vibration will be
eliminated when the brakes are applied.
When you come to CAR TECH we make sure
your brake fluid system is full. If not full, this can cause a
spongy pedal or make the pedal feel low. At every service,
whether it is a simple tire rotation, oil change or flat repair,
we check you brakes. Some brake pads and shoes are equipped with
spring line clips that begin to rub on the rotor disc or drum
when the pad or shoe nears the end of it's life. If you hear a
squeaking or scratching noise coming from a wheel when you step
on the brakes have one of our ASE Certified Technicians check it
out, before the pad or shoe gouges a grove in the disc or drum,
causing damage and causing much higher repair costs. A few
simple habits can enhance the life of your brakes:
| Don't "ride the
brakes". A slight and constant pressure
causes premature wear. |
| Don't use your left foot
to brake a car with an automatic transmission.
You're more likely to ride the brakes. |
| Consider flushing the
hydraulic system to eliminate sediment and
residue every one to two years. |
