Need Brake Replacement? Check Brake Pads or Rotors
Every so many miles, your vehicle requires a brake service to inspect the master cylinder, the calipers, and the brake rotors. If any of these components are wearing out and failing, your auto mechanic may recommend a complete brake replacement.
So that you can make an informed decision about brake replacement, take a moment to learn more about the components of the brake system:
- Master Cylinder – Over the past few years, this component has been refined and should rarely malfunction. However, one problem that could occur is an internal leak. This will cause the brake pedal to slowly sink to the floor when you apply steady pressure with your foot. If this happens, a warning light on the dash will alert you.
- Pads - Brake pads wear out with use and must be replaced periodically. If the lining of the pad wears down to the metal shoe, it will have metal-to-metal contact directly against the rotor, causing severe damage and loss of braking efficiency.
- Rotors - The disc rotors have a highly machined surface that makes contact with the brake rotors. Just as the pads wear out, rotors also undergo wear and tear, usually in the form of ridges and groves from the pads rubbing against them. If worn-out brake pads damage the rotors, it is possible that the machine resurfaces them. However, if the damage is too extensive, and the rotors are too thin, you will likely need to replace both the brake rotors and pads.
- Calipers - The caliper is what pinches the brake pads onto the disc when you step on the pedal. If the calipers lock up, the pads will wear down to metal and cause damage to the rotor. Or, if the calipers start to leak hydraulic fluid, they don't have the pressure needed to press the pads against the rotor, and your brakes will fail.
If you keep a vehicle long enough, some form of brake replacement will become necessary. To ensure the safety of your vehicle, make sure you have a regularly scheduled inspection of the braking system.
Failing brake pads? For expert brake replacement service, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary's Quality Automotive. Call (308) 381-2295 for more information. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
Every so many miles, your vehicle requires a brake service to inspect the master cylinder, the calipers, and the brake rotors. If any of these components are wearing out and failing, your auto mechanic may recommend a complete brake replacement.
So that you can make an informed decision about brake replacement, take a moment to learn more about the components of the brake system:
- Master Cylinder – Over the past few years, this component has been refined and should rarely malfunction. However, one problem that could occur is an internal leak. This will cause the brake pedal to slowly sink to the floor when you apply steady pressure with your foot. If this happens, a warning light on the dash will alert you.
- Pads - Brake pads wear out with use and must be replaced periodically. If the lining of the pad wears down to the metal shoe, it will have metal-to-metal contact directly against the rotor, causing severe damage and loss of braking efficiency.
- Rotors - The disc rotors have a highly machined surface that makes contact with the brake rotors. Just as the pads wear out, rotors also undergo wear and tear, usually in the form of ridges and groves from the pads rubbing against them. If worn-out brake pads damage the rotors, it is possible that the machine resurfaces them. However, if the damage is too extensive, and the rotors are too thin, you will likely need to replace both the brake rotors and pads.
- Calipers - The caliper is what pinches the brake pads onto the disc when you step on the pedal. If the calipers lock up, the pads will wear down to metal and cause damage to the rotor. Or, if the calipers start to leak hydraulic fluid, they don't have the pressure needed to press the pads against the rotor, and your brakes will fail.
If you keep a vehicle long enough, some form of brake replacement will become necessary. To ensure the safety of your vehicle, make sure you have a regularly scheduled inspection of the braking system.
Failing brake pads? For expert brake replacement service, contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Gary's Quality Automotive. Call (308) 381-2295 for more information. Our auto shop proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.
