Brake Service Questions Answered
Everything you need to know about brake maintenance and repair
Everything you need to know about brake maintenance and repair
We recommend having your brakes inspected at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, if you notice any warning signs such as squealing, grinding, vibration, or reduced braking performance, schedule an inspection immediately. Regular brake inspections help identify issues early and can prevent more costly repairs down the road.
Brake pad lifespan varies significantly based on driving habits, vehicle type, and conditions. On average, brake pads last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles. City driving with frequent stops wears pads faster than highway driving. Aggressive braking also reduces pad life. During your brake inspection, our technicians will measure pad thickness and advise you on remaining life and replacement timing.
Brake noise can have several causes. Squealing often indicates worn brake pads with built-in wear indicators designed to alert you. Grinding suggests brake pads are completely worn and metal is contacting metal, which damages rotors. Clicking or rattling may indicate loose brake hardware. Even light rain can cause temporary squeaking that disappears after a few brake applications. Any persistent brake noise should be professionally inspected.
Steering wheel vibration during braking typically indicates warped brake rotors. Rotors can warp from excessive heat, improper installation, or over-torqued lug nuts. The warped surface causes uneven brake pad contact, resulting in pulsation felt through the steering wheel. In most cases, rotors can be resurfaced to restore a smooth surface. Severely warped rotors require replacement for safe braking performance.
Brake pads should be replaced in axle sets - both front pads or both rear pads together. This ensures even braking force on each axle. Front and rear pads wear at different rates, so you typically don't need to replace all four at once. However, some vehicles with all-wheel drive may require all four to be replaced simultaneously to maintain proper braking balance. Our technicians will advise what's necessary for your specific vehicle.
Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transfers the force from your brake pedal to the brake calipers. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, which lowers its boiling point and can cause brake fade under heavy use. Contaminated fluid also promotes corrosion in brake system components. Most manufacturers recommend changing brake fluid every 2-3 years to maintain optimal brake performance and prevent component damage.
No, you should not continue driving when your brake warning light is illuminated. This light indicates a serious issue such as low brake fluid, brake system pressure problems, or parking brake engagement. Driving with brake system problems is dangerous and can lead to brake failure. If your brake warning light comes on, safely pull over and contact us immediately. We can arrange for towing if necessary.
Brake service costs vary depending on the work needed and your vehicle type. Basic brake pad replacement typically ranges from $149 to $289 per axle. More extensive services like rotor replacement or caliper work cost more. We always provide a detailed written estimate before performing any work. Our pricing is competitive and transparent with no hidden fees. Contact us for a free inspection and accurate estimate for your specific vehicle.
Ceramic brake pads are quieter, produce less dust, and work well in normal driving conditions. They're ideal for daily commuting and lighter vehicles. Metallic pads offer better heat dissipation and stopping power under heavy use, making them suitable for trucks, performance vehicles, or towing applications. However, they're noisier and produce more brake dust. Our technicians will recommend the best pad type based on your vehicle and driving needs.
Yes, all our brake services include warranty coverage on both parts and labor. Warranty terms vary depending on the specific service and parts used, but we stand behind our work. If you experience any issues with brake components we've installed or services we've performed within the warranty period, we'll make it right at no additional cost. Full warranty details are provided on your service invoice.
Our brake specialists are here to help. Contact us today for expert advice or to schedule a free brake inspection.