Right now until the end of November we are offering a free comprehensive brake inspection for all our customers, old and new. Read on to learn more about what is involved!
We all know how important safe and working brakes are t the performance of your car. Whether traveling on the beautiful roads around flagstaff or chugging your way through wall to wall traffic, your brakes have to work or your journey will come to an end rather more quickly than you may have first expected. We think an informed driver, is a safe driver, so let’s dig a little further! Read on to learn more.
Why Brake Inspections Matter
Over time, brake parts wear down from heat, friction, and everyday use. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to longer stopping distances, noisy brakes, or even brake failure. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), poor brake maintenance is a leading factor in accidents caused by mechanical failure . A thorough inspection can catch small problems before they turn into expensive—and dangerous—repairs.
What Gets Checked During a Comprehensive Inspection?
We do more than just take a peek at your brake pads. Typically this is what our trained professionals look at:
Brake Pads and Shoes: These press against your drums or rotors to slow your car down. They are friction materials and a technician checks for uneven wear and measure their thickness. When glazed, contaminated with oil or thin, they will recommend a replacement.
Rotors and Drums: Drum brakes and disc brakes are the surface shoes and pads press against. Our technicians look for grooves, cracks, heat spots and warping. A damaged rotor can cause vibrations when you are braking.
Brake Fluid: The role of brake fluid is to transfer pressure from the brake pedal to the brakes. This absorbs moisture over time and will lower their performance and can corrode the entire brake system. Our technicians will check condition, fluid levels and may recommend a brake fluid flush if the brake fluid is dirty.
Brakes Lines and Hoses: Flexible hoses and metal brake lines transfer fluid through the system. We will be on the look for rust, cracks and swelling; all causes of brake failure.
Wheel Cylinders and Calipers: The job of calipers is to squeeze the brake pads against the rotors. With cars who have drum brakes, that is the role of wheel cylinders. A good inspection ensures they’re moving, not seizing, leaking or sticking.
Master Cylinder: The master cylinder is responsible for generating the hydraulic pressure to activate your brakes. We check for leaks and make sure everything is in order.
Handbrake: Also known as your parking brake. We check it for holding strength and proper adjustment. Vitally important in Flagstaff considering our steep hills!
Warning Signs You Need an Inspection
Even if you are totally up to date with your maintenance, there are times your car will tell you that a brake check is in sharp order. Look out for these common signs:
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Squealing, grinding, or clicking noises
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Vibrations or pulsing when braking
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A soft or spongy brake pedal
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Car pulling to one side when braking
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Warning lights on your dashboard
If you experience any of these schedule an inspection as soon as possible. It really is very important from a safety standpoint.
How Often Should You Get A Brake Inspection?
Many experts think at least once per year or every 12,000 miles. But living in a very hilly and mountainous area like Flagstaff, you may want to take that into account.
The University Auto Difference
At University Auto, we don’t just check boxes, we carefully examine your entire brake system. Our ASE-certified technicians provide honest feedback, explain what we find, and give you options before making any repairs. Whether it’s a simple pad replacement or a full brake overhaul, our goal is to keep you and your family safe on the road. Give us a call and make your appointment for your FREE comprehensive break system inspection, today!
