When your Ford needs an oil change, recommended by many manufacturers every 5,000 miles or 6 months, best practice is to ask for a brake inspection. This is an inexpensive way to prevent brake failure, which can be catastrophic. Brake parts are designed to wear as they do the job of slowing your vehicle. As well as slowing your car, the pads and rotors lose a small amount of their material every time you brake. Everyone’s brakes wear at different rates relating to highway miles vs stop and go driving and other factors. Because of this regular inspections should be on your radar. Brake problems can sometimes be noticed by the following symptoms:
- Squealing sound when braking
- Burning smell after braking
- Vibration during braking
- Brake warning light illuminated
- Taking more distance to stop than usual
As well as periodic pad and rotor service, brake fluid needs regular replacement. This specialized fluid is very good at what it does; it transfers your brake pedal action to the brake pads, located at each wheel, resulting in the braking action you desire. Heat generated when you use your brakes is transferred to the brake fluid, which means it must have a high boiling point. But brake fluid has a few drawbacks which require regular drain and fill service. Brake fluid absorbs moisture. Over time the boiling point of the brake fluid is lowered and water in the fluid causes corrosion to form in your internal brake parts. If you brake hard going down a hill, for instance, old, water-containing brake fluid may boil which results in brake fade. This is more likely if you drive in hot climates.
Brake fade happens when your brake pedal must travel farther and farther to accomplish the same amount of braking. When the pedal reaches the floor you have brake failure, (ineffective brakes). We are not trying to frighten you, but to point out that regular brake inspections are a must, and brake fluid changes are as important as regular oil changes for the longevity of your vehicle and the safety of your family. Wheel sensors work with your ABS and stability control systems to prevent wheel lockup and loss of control. Our technician will make sure they are operating properly during a brake inspection.
Finally, regular hand brake adjustment is necessary. As the brakes wear slack must be taken up in the hand, (emergency), brake system for it to operate as it should.
At Fremont Foreign Auto we have dedicated brake repair experts. Call us at 510-793-6067 or visit our website to get a quote and book an appointment for a brake inspection or any auto service you require.