Brake Inspection
Our expert mechanics will assess your brake condition for free.
Free Brake Inspections
Brakes are one the most important parts of your vehicle because they allow you to stop safely. At Big Brand Tire & Service, we always offer free brake inspections. Our goal is to keep you safe and help advise you of any brake related problems, for free.
Brake System Overview
You know that when you push on the brake pedal, your car gradually
slows, eventually comes to a complete stop. But there are a lot of
moving parts working together inside your car to make this happen.
Since your foot can’t physically stop a moving vehicle, your car must
multiply the force of your foot utilizing brake fluid and a hydraulic
system, paired with the friction of your car’s brake pads and discs.
When you press down on the brake pedal, brake fluid travels through
the brake lines from a master cylinder to the pistons of your brake
caliper or wheel cylinders. This even pressure is how the force of
your foot is amplified to create a more impactful deceleration of your
car. Depending on the type of brakes in your car, the piston system
will then apply brake pads to the disks/drums, causing friction to
slow the car to a stop.
Most cars today utilize an anti-locking braking system, or ABS. These
complex systems can actually pump the brakes for you in the event of
an emergency stop.
How often should you check your brakes?
It is best practice to have your brakes checked every time the wheels are off of your vehicle during service or anytime the feel that something is not right. Common brake system issues include:
- Squeaking, squealing, or grinding
- Any dashboard lights illuminate
- Jerking or pulling to one side or the other
- Brake pedal feels soft or “squishy”
- Brake pedal feels hard or will not push down
- Leaking brake fluid
These are just some common symptoms of brake system related problems, but if you notice anything abnormal we always advise to have your brakes inspected as soon as possible. Again, at Big Brand Tire & Service, we will always check your brake system for free.
