Brake inspections are recommended for your Mercedes-Benz alongside every other oil change, about a year’s driving. Brake inspections are often an affordable way to prevent catastrophic brake failure. Brake parts wear as they do the work of slowing your vehicle. Pads and rotors lose a small amount of their material each time you brake and want to get replaced after they reach the wear and tear limit specified by Mercedes. Brakes wear at different rates depending on highway miles, city driving, air temperature, and other factors. Depending on the above considerations, rotors should last 30,000 – 80,000 miles, and your mechanic should replace both rotors on an axle. Although some customers ask us to replace only the brake pads, this is a false economy as worn pads may cause increased wear on the new rotors. Regular inspections should be important to you. These symptoms can often presage brake problems:
- Squealing sound while braking
- Burning smell after braking
- Vibration during braking
- Brake lighton
- Longer stopping distance than usual
- Steering wheel shakes while braking
- Vehicle pulls to one side when braking
Brake fluid must be replaced every two years. This specialized fluid works well; it transfers your pedal braking force to the restraint at each wheel, providing you with the braking action you wish. Heat is generated during brake use. Brakes work by converting the energy of motion to friction energy. The heat ends up within the brake fluid, meaning it must be ready to absorb a lot of heat before it boils. Brake fluid requires a regular drain and fill service because it absorbs moisture and other contamination. This contamination leads to a lower boiling point of the brake fluid. Water within the brake fluid causes corrosion in your internal brake parts, requiring them to get replaced before their time. If you brake hard on a downhill grade, old water-containing brake fluid may boil, leading to brake fade. Brake fade is more likely if you drive in hot climates, pull a trailer, or carry heavy loads with your Mercedes. Bubbles within the boiling brake fluid mean the pedal must travel farther and farther to accomplish equal brake force. These problems can result in a complete breakdown (ineffective brakes). Owing to these possibilities, periodic brake inspections, and brake fluid changes must be completed to protect your family. Wheel sensors work with your anti-lock braking system (ABS) and stability control to stop loss of control in slippery conditions. Our mechanic will ensure they’re working as new when repairs are completed. Finally, with periodic brake service, we will adjust your emergency brake. As a result of brake wear, slack within this system occurs, which needs adjustment for the hand (emergency) brakes to work dependably. At Fremont Foreign Auto, we’ve dedicated brake repair experts. Call us at 510-793-6067 or visit our website for a quote and book time for a brake inspection or any auto service you need.