Oh, Stop! (Disc Brake Service)
July 30, 2023
Every time you drive your vehicle, you wear down your brakes just a little bit. And after a while, that adds up. Gradually, your stopping power isn't like it used to be. Since brakes are one of your vehicle's most important safety features, it just makes sense to keep them performing well.
Most vehicles have disc brakes. One key component, as the name suggests, is the disc. Most vehicles have discs on their front and rear wheels. The discs (also called rotors) are made of metal, and each rotates with the wheel hub. Your brakes also have pads that make contact with the rotors when you press down on the brake pedal, and the friction stops your vehicle.
After many, many stops, that friction wears down both the pads and the discs and reduces their ability to stop the way you need them to. The discs may also become uneven from all the heat they generate, and your brakes won't stop as well as they used to when they were newer.
Some signs that your rotors need attention include vibration at the wheels when you stop, discolored rotors (the metal looks blue), excessively hot rotors, or grooves in the metal. If you see any of these signs, it's time to bring in your vehicle for us to inspect your brakes.
A technician will measure the thickness and trueness of the rotors and check the surfaces for wear. If they need to be replaced, they'll be done in pairs, so if a front rotor is bad, the other front rotor will also be replaced. Usually, your brake pads will be replaced at the same time. You can ask your service advisor if higher-performance brakes would benefit you.
When your vehicle is at the shop, the technician will check other components of your brake system to make sure they are operating safely. Brakes are vital to the safe operation of your vehicle. Keep them well maintained so they can be there when you need them.
Auto Lab Livonia
36251 Five Miles Rd
Livonia, MI 48154
734-432-6000
http://www.autolablivonia.com
Need Service?
More articles from Auto Lab Livonia
Stuck! (Vehicle Door Issues)
December 29, 2024
This may have happened to you. You drive somewhere and get out of your vehicle only to try closing the door and it just won't stay closed! What a helpless feeling. You can't lock it; you can't leave it like it is. Or, let's say you head down to your vehicle to head out to work in the morning a... More
Timing is Everything (Timing Belt)
December 22, 2024
Talk about exquisite choreography; it happens under the hood of your vehicle every time you take a drive. Your engines many complex parts must work exactly together. One key is a part called a timing belt, which enables the synchronizing of two of your engines components, the camshaft, and the ... More
Light Up your Life (Headlamp Replacement)
December 15, 2024
Did you know that having a burned out headlight can result in your rearview mirror reflecting some flashing lights? In other words, you might get pulled over by the police for only having one working headlight, because in most places it's against the law. Not only is it illegal to drive with one... More