Tips for Brake Pad and Rotor Maintenance

Brakes. They’re so reliable that we often forget about them. Rain or shine, they’re always there for us…until they aren’t. It’s up to us to keep our brakes in top form to make our time on the road as safe as possible for us and the people we share it with. Let’s discuss the responsibilities of European car owners in maintaining their brakes, and what could happen if we ignore car safety standards.

What Does Brake Maintenance Look Like?

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Before you even head to the mechanic, there are a few tips for extending the life of your brake pads and rotors:

• Quality is King: In this area, investing in quality brake pads will be your first line of defense against faulty pads, and will reduce the number of pad replacements for the lifetime of the car.
• Coasting Over Braking: When approaching a stop, rather than relying solely on your brakes to slow you down, consider coasting to take some of the load of the brakes. This uses the friction between the tire and the road when you lift your foot off the gas pedal. 

There is only so much we can do on our own, so sometimes we need to see an expert. Here are some ways your mechanic can help care for your brakes:

• Inspections: Professionals are professional for a reason! They are trained to look for safety issues and will be able to give maintenance or repair recommendations based on what they find. It is important to find a mechanic who specializes in European cars to schedule regular inspections to stay ahead of wear and tear.
• Flush Brake Fluid: You wouldn’t be able to stop without brake fluid. It is what turns force from your foot pushing on the brake pedal into pressure on the brakes. Over time, moisture can get into the fluid system which can lead to corrosion and brake system failure. The brake fluid should be flushed every two to three years to prevent this from happening.
• Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement: If your brake pads and rotors are no longer performing as they should, your mechanic can replace them. This should be done every 30,000-80,000 miles for pads. Rotors tend to last longer than pads, but if you notice squealing or a burning smell when you brake, it's definitely time for a visit to the shop!

The Risks of Driving with Worn Brake Pads and Rotors

What would actually happen if we ignored regular maintenance and signs of wear and tear? Several issues could arise. Worn brake pads lead to slower braking response time. This can cause severe accidents, especially if driving in non-ideal conditions. Worn pads can also lead to metal-on-metal friction, which can damage the rotor. In extreme cases, the friction can cause the rotor to overheat and explode, further damaging the brake system.

Blair Automotive Can Help!

Here at Blair Automotive, our team specializes in European car maintenance and is ready to take care of all of your brake system needs. We recognize the importance of keeping your car performing its best and ensuring all of your passengers stay safe.

We stand by the quality and affordability of our services. If you receive a better estimate elsewhere, we'll match or beat it. Click the button below to reserve your appointment time today!