AUTONET TV
Bad Vibes (Disc brake rotor problems)Posted July 14, 2024 6:51 AMIf you were to name the most important safety feature on your vehicle right now, what would your answer be? A lot of driving experts would agree that it’s your brakes. Most newer vehicles use a well-engineered and efficient style of brakes called disc brakes. The name disc brakes comes from one of the components: a disc attached to the wheel hub that is squeezed by parts called calipers. If you’ve ever ridden a bicycle with hand brakes, you probably have seen how they squeeze against the rim of the bike wheel to stop the bike. It’s similar to the way your vehicle’s calipers squeeze against the disc rotor, with added parts called brake pads attached to the calipers that are what create the friction and stop your vehicle. Here’s why disc brakes need regular maintenance. Over time, that friction creates wear and tear on the brake pads and the rotors, and you’ll start to see the signs. Your brakes may have one of the 3 “S” sounds: squeaking, squealing, or scraping. The sound is usually the first sign of brake pad wear which can lead to rotor damage. Soon you may notice a pulsating or vibration when you brake. That’s because your once smooth and straight rotor disc is warping from the heat generated from friction. Or it may be due to wear. Eventually, your brakes will take a longer distance to stop your vehicle, and the rotors can have grooves carved into them. When you start noticing any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have them inspected by a trained technician. They will measure the rotor thickness, check wear patterns for grooves and heat discoloration, and see how much of the brake pads remain. They will also check to make sure all brake components are moving freely, check your brake fluid, and look for corrosion. Most vehicle manufacturers require worn or damaged rotors to be replaced, not resurfaced. It’s all part of a complete brake job, replacing pads and the brake hardware parts along with the rotors. It reduces the chance of premature failure. How often you will need your brakes serviced depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations, your driving habits, and the environment you live in. Your service facility can recommend the best replacement parts based on those factors. Regular maintenance and attention are vital for keeping your brakes performing like they are designed to. Remember, your brakes are your vehicle’s most important safety feature. Protrans Automotive & Transmission Specialists | ||
SearchArchiveMay 2024 (15)June 2024 (5) July 2024 (4) August 2024 (4) September 2024 (5) October 2024 (4) | CategoriesBrake Service (1)Brakes (2)Winter Tires (1)Spark Plugs (1)Cabin Air Filter (1)Service Intervals (1)Customer Detective Work (1)Fuel Economy (1)Fuel Pump (1)Fluids (1)TPMS (1)Tires (3)Air Conditioning (1)What Customers Should Know (5)Battery (3)Maintenance (1)Shocks and Struts (1) |
OUR REVIEWS
Michael Mattox, 09/10/2024Just serviced my three vehicles for my regular oil changes. I advised Luz at the front desk that I'm closely monitoring the state of my oldest vehicle's engine (over 200,000 miles), and requested they advise me of the oil condition. Following the service, and with my vehicle on the rack, Luz escorted me to the garage, where the technician showed me my just-removed oil filter and explained the relevant indications. Nice touch. Pro Trans has been my go-to shop for the last eight years, ever since a AAA recommendation for an emergency transmission repair. Bsed on that initial outstanding experience, they have become my preferred shop for nearly all my vehicle maintenance and repair needs for the last eight years. The reasons are simple: honesty, competence, and thoroughness = peace of mind. Friendly and conscientious service desk is icing on the cake. Thanks to Michael and his employees for running a great shop. (Caitlin is nice, too!)