Car maintenance is the umbrella under which lie the different categories of maintenance, as well as the maintenance protocols. Each part of your vehicle, such as the engine, suspension, transmission, etc. need maintenance. The braking system is no different. From callipers to pads, from bushes to fluids, as well as discs and drums are parts that need to be checked once in a while. This ‘once in a while’ is mentioned in the owners manual of the car, but who reads it? Most of the people don’t even take a look at the manual, and hence, have no idea of their vehicle’s standard maintenance requirement. Even though it’s one of the most important safety elements of the vehicle, yet it isn’t taken as much care of as should be.
Brake Breakdown
Before knowing more about the maintenance, let’s know more about the brake parts.
Master Brake Cylinder – This equipment is responsible for receiving signals from the brake, and transfer the pressure to all the wheels.
Brake Fluid Reservoir – This is the fluid compartment. It is the place to fill up the brake fluid at the time of maintenance or changes.
Brake Lines – A duct for the brake fluid to flow to all the wheels.
Brake Rotor – A spinning disc that is compressed by pads for the required stopping power.
Brake Pads – Each rotor has two pads and is responsible for applying pressure on the rotor.
Calliper – It is responsible for moving the brake pads and is located around the rotor.
Drum Brake Assembly – This is usually found in the rear wheels. The brake shoes move outwards on the inner surface of the drum to apply friction and stop the vehicle.
Basics of Brake Maintenance
Now that we know about the parts, let’s know how to take care of them.
One must keep the brake fluid in check. Low level of brake fluid leads to extra pressure on the master brake cylinder, which in turn sends the extra pressure to the other parts of the brake as well.
Regular checks are a must. Nowadays, the presence of alloy wheels has made it easier for one to check the brakes and its parts. A check for uneven pad wear, rust on callipers, etc. should be done regularly. Doing so will also let you know when it is time for you to get the brake parts changed before any indications of wear out from them.
Keep an eye on the dashboard. Nowadays, some cars come with a ‘‘system status’’ for brakes that help to keep a check on the condition of the brakes, and have an indicator on the dashboard to inform in case its time to get them checked.
Check the undercarriage. The undercarriage is the part of the car that always takes a beating; be it from dust, water, pebbles, etc. This is also the place the brake lines go through. Even though the undercarriage is designed to protect the brake lines, one should keep an eye for any signs of rust, holes, and other signs of damage.
Know your car’s schedule for maintenance. A read through the owner’s manual is enough to educate the owner about the parts and their maintenance. But, this is something that most people skip doing. In case you’re one of those who skip the reading, we’re here to help you out. Brakes should be checked on every 3rd oil change, or every 10,000 miles. Timely maintenance is the key to a longer life of your car.
Bad Driving Habits – The Terminator of Brakes
Keeping the fluids in check, pads in order, and other examination of parts, are of no use if you don’t drive properly. When the brakes are applied while the car is in speed, there is a lot of extra pressure that goes on the brake parts. Braking slowly and in a systematic way will give the same result, while also saving your car’s parts from wearing off before they should. The fewer the stops, the more the life of the brakes and the better the performance.
Keep An Open Eye
One can be a good driver, do regular check-ups, and even maintain their car in the best condition possible, and yet there can be things that aren’t in one’s control. The external factors and environmental conditions can be a major factor when talking about car maintenance. Weather, road conditions, debris, and such elements are things that are not under anyone’s control. Keeping an open eye and better awareness during driving is the best way to handle these conditions.
Know your car’s condition and always keep a check on it; do this, and your car will never let you down in emergencies. It’s more like a “give and take” relationship. If this relationship ever needs a helping hand at times of Brake Repair Derby, we at Motorwurks are right here to help you. Contact us for any brake related issues, and our experts at Motorwurks will help you right away.