 | Jeff Lovell is the owner of Neptune Radiator and Auto Repair. He started a radiator repair shop in 1996 and has grown over the last 15 years into an automotive repair shop. With 3 ASE Certified technicians including 1 Master ASE Certified technician, they have over 40 years of combined experience. They do everything except glass and body repair. For more information please contact us at 620.231.5890 or visit us at 902 West 4th Street. |
Automotive Service & Repair
2013-06-25 09:57:43
How often should you have your brakes checked?
Q-I had my car serviced once a year, and it’s been about 9 months since the last service. My ABS light just went on. Do you think I need to take it in now, or can it wait until the next service?
A-When it comes to your car's systems, brakes top the list of systems that need your care and attention. Today's cars have very sensitive warning systems that alert us to anything that might pose a threat, and those warnings should never be ignored-- including that light. My advice is take your car in for service as soon as possible. Waiting can put your life in danger, or at the very least cause additional damage that could cause additional expense.
Don't worry though, you are not alone in wondering. Many people are unaware of the signs that indicate a car's brakes may need maintenance or repair.
Warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing.
Never expect the signs to develop gradually, although they may. Sometimes however it's only a few miles between a soft brake pedal and a pedal that goes clear to the floor.
Noise is another important indicator that something is wrong with the brake system. Any sound that is out of the ordinary is an indication you need your breaks checked. A grinding sound is of immediate concern as it indicates metal on metal, which throws off metal dust that can cause even more problems.
Another leading indicator is the feel of the brake pedal. If the car unusually pulls left or right when braking, or if the front end shakes, those are both signs of excessive brake wear. If the brake pedal begins to feel spongy, it could be a sign that air has entered the brake system or fluid is low. Both of these issues poses a serious threat to the proper operation of the brake system, and to your safety.
Many cars, like yours, now have ABS (Automatic Braking System) that initiates a rapid- fire pumping sequence to the brakes to keep the car straight during sudden or hard braking. If the ABS light illuminates on your instrument panel, then it's likely that the wheel sensors have detected excessive build-up of metal particles from the brake system.
Wheels should be pulled and brakes checked once a year by an ASE- Certified technician. Replace brakes after 20,000-30,000 miles, although 12,000-15,000 miles is not uncommon, depending on the type of usage.
Brake systems should be flushed and brake fluid replaced every two years.
Be safe and do not neglect those brakes!
