Brakes & Brake Repair

Brakes are designed to wear out. The pads rub on the brake disk to stop your car, so worn pads are the first part to check if you are experiencing any braking problems. A full inspection though will show underlying problems, as well as what can be repaired and what needs replaced. Brake pad replacement is the most common repair job for automotive brake systems.

Brakes and brake repair service for the entire braking system and brake problems, such as brake pads, brake fluid, and rotors, are important in helping ensure the safety of you and your passengers in your car, truck or other automobile with brake issues. There are a number of signs that indicate your brakes need attention and you want to give them the best attention there is. All brake repairs and brake shops are not the same and at Car Fix Max, we know stellar service doesn’t have to exclude cost-effective solutions, whether it’s new anti-lock brakes or an older model. Brake repair, replacement and inspections all may be necessary, and where to get your brake pads replaced can have significant consequences on the value of your car.

If your brakes are making a squealing sound or you hear grinding when your car comes to a stop, these may be signs that you need brakes service immediately. Consult a certified technician near you for a brake inspection any time you notice any irregularities in your car’s braking performance. An auto shop or service center with the best brake service should be able to provide you with a reasonable estimate on hours and time.

There are common brake problems with common, well-known signs, such as a shaky steering wheel or a squeaky sound and we’ve all been there and know that’s an indicator for checking your brakes. However, there are many other – probably less obvious – signs your brakes may be showing which you don’t want to ignore.

Get a brake service inspection if:

• The brake pedal seems to be spongy or presses farther to the floor than usual
• Your vehicle pulls to the right or left when you brake
• Unusual noises or vibrations occur during braking
• You have grinding, squeaking or squealing brakes
• Your steering wheel is shaking
• Your car is wobbling or pulsating when you drive at highway speeds
• It’s been over a year or 12,000 miles since the last time your brakes were inspected
• You’re near or past the number of miles your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends between brake fluid exchanges
• The brake warning light on your dashboard comes on and stays on
• Your vehicle requires longer distances to stop than it used to
• The brake pedal responds slowly
• The brake pedal requires excess pressure

One thing you can do as a vehicle owner is better understand the different moving parts that make up your brake system. When you press your brake pedal the brake pads create friction; in turn, the brake rotor disperses heat throughout the vehicle to keep the brakes themselves from overheating. Both are essential to the proper functioning of your braking system. And both need proper inspection when servicing your brakes.

At Car Fix Max, we offer and recommend a full, 23-point inspection that includes a comprehensive vehicle check, from brake function, belts, hoses and filters to suspensions, struts and shocks, motor mounts and fuel filters. Our brake assessment, however, will include:

• Brake function – measurement of pads thickness
• Fluids – inspection of brake fluid levels and leaks
• Rotors / drums – determining if resurfacing or replacement is needed
• Wheel cylinders – check wheel cylinders for function
• Brake hardware – inspect hardware for wear and tear
• Brake hoses – problems with the hoses are common and need regular checking as they can wear out

Why Get A Brake Assessment?

• Get your vehicle inspected by a certified technician to properly identify the issues affecting your braking system
• Get an estimate of what the necessary work will cost based on the individual problems of your brakes
• Get an outline of the work ahead, time estimates and parts needed
• Get recommendations and options on the best parts for your particular vehicle