What to Know About Your Brakes

Posted April 23, 2019

Spring is here and now that you’ve got your winter tires removed, it’s time to give your brakes some attention. Ice and salt build-up from the winter roads can wear away the lubricants on your brakes and cause them to corrode. Spring is the perfect time to get your brakes inspected. Bring them to your local Integra Tire today!

When we do a brake inspection, we will check the following components of your brake system:

Brake pads
Brake calipers
Brake Rotors
Wheel cylinders
Hardware (springs and adjusters)
Hoses
Parking brake cables
Fluid condition
Wheel bearings and grease seals
Master cylinder fluid exchange

It’s a good idea to have your brakes inspected yearly but you should check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to determine the correct intervals for your vehicle.

Throughout the year if you notice any abnormalities with your brakes, immediately visit your local Integra Tire to have them checked. These are signs that your brakes may need to be checked:

Stains under your vehicle – This could mean that your brake fluid is leaking. If your brake fluid reservoir is empty, then your brakes won’t work, so get this checked immediately.
Worn brake pads – This could mean that your brake pads need replacing. They will look thin when you look between your wheels spokes.
High pitched or grinding sounds when you brake – This could also mean that your brake pads need replacing.
Car pulling to one side – This could mean that your brake pads are wearing unevenly.
Vibrations – Brakes will vibrate when the ABS kicks in, but if your car is vibrating when you brake and the ABS is not kicking in, this could mean that your brake rotors are distorted.

To keep your brakes in tip-top condition here are some tips:

Stop slowly and anticipate stops – Avoiding stomping on your brakes will extend their life.
Follow the three-second rule – Always follow three seconds behind the car in front of you to avoid having to slam on your brakes.
Check your brake fluid regularly – If you the fluid is dark, you should get a brake flush.

Follow these tips and get a regular brake inspection, and your brakes will be in great condition for years to come.

Questions? Our Advisors are Happy to Help!

If you have questions about anything you've read in this resource page, contact your nearest dealer for more information. We are passionate in assisting our customers make the best choices to keep their vehicles in tip-top shape and keep their families safe.