What You Need to Know About Brake Safety
At Saffron Autos our number one goal is making sure your vehicle is safe to drive and that you can rely on it 100%. We very much believe that “Whatever your driving style, you have to be able to stop in good time.”
Brakes and pads wear. It’s not surprising that we find these are one of the most common issues we come across. We hope this article will help you understand how you can save money on your brakes, whilst making sure you will be safe in your car at all times.
Dangers
When brakes become faulty they reduce braking efficiency. As a result, you could find yourself taking longer to stop. You may also suffer skidding and in worst case scenarios your brakes could fail. We want to ensure that you don’t end up in an accident that could have been prevented.
In addition, we want to avoid a situation when worn pads damage the vehicle’s brake discs. This could lead to the need for premature replacement and an unwarranted expense.
Brakes Explained
Modern braking systems are very complex combinations of electrical and mechanical parts. It is common for today’s cars to benefit from Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS), where sensors record wheel speeds and a computer monitors and controls the brakes in emergencies.
The majority of brake faults we deal with involve the brake pads, discs or both, not surprisingly because these components are designed to wear and be replaced over time.
How your brakes work
Brakes work when a driver applies pressure to the brake pedal. This is then amplified when a brake booster exerts a continuous force in the master cylinder forcing brake fluid into the brake’s calliper.
This pressure in the calliper is passed to the brake piston, which presses the brake pads onto the brake’s disc, slowing the wheels and causing the car to come to a stop.
Making Brakes Last Longer
Progressive braking is the single most effective way of extending the life of your brakes. It involves applying a variable braking technique instead of one single braking action. Progressive braking starts slight and increases with pressure but ultimately finishes light.
When applied correctly progressive braking will…..
- Prevents wheels locking
- Help avoid skidding
- Increases fuel efficiency
- Enables other drivers and road users to react with more ease
- Reduces wear on both the brakes and the car’s other mechanical components
It’s better for the vehicle and saves money!
Spotting Faulty Brakes
However you brake, vehicles will require brake repairs at one point or another. If you are suspicious about your brakes, book an inspection as soon as possible. It’s much better to be safe than to let things slide and be sorry.
Her some things to watch out for:
- Any high-pitched squeal, or vibrations and ringing noises when you brake
- Noticeably soft or hard brake pedals when depressed
- Stopping distances that appear to have increased
- Brake fluid light illuminating
- ABS warning light illuminating
- Brake-pad-wear light illuminating
- Grinding noise on the application of the brakes
Brake Replacement
Brakes need to be monitored and maintained. If necessary they should always be replaced before it’s too late! Prevention is better than cure.
Have the brakes checked when you have a service or if you suspect any issues.
At Saffron Autos, we will measure your brake pads and discs and compare the results to your manufacturer’s specifications. Our aim is to enable you to be able to drive safely between brake inspections.
Below is an example of how old and new brake components differ, to highlight how important is to establish accurate measurements.
We also monitor the brake fluid in your car because this has a finite life and can affect your braking performance.
If in doubt….
Your safety is our paramount concern and we want you to be able to trust your car at all times.
So if you have any concerns about your brakes or you’d just like to be on the safe side then book in for a quick inspection today.
