Fleet Repair
Brake Services
Your car's brakes work hard. And the job they do is critical to your safety. That's why it's so important for you to be aware of how your brakes work, and to be alert for signs that your brakes need maintenance. Here you'll find an overview of braking systems and tips to help you know when it's time for brake service. No matter what your brake system needs, Firestone Complete Fleet Care is here to help make sure your car is functioning properly.
About Braking Systems
Today's braking systems are composed of a number of integral parts all working together to ensure your vehicle stops properly. Generally speaking, by depressing the brake pedal, you are telling the master cylinder to compress brake fluid, which in turn sends hydraulic pressure through brake lines that activate your vehicle's brake pads (or shoes). These pads (or shoes) then make contact with spinning rotors (or drums), slowing down or stopping the vehicle. More complex systems use sensors to activate the brake system, but the net desired effect is the same. The parts that make up your vehicle's brake system wear down over time and eventually need to be replaced. The most common brake repair performed is the replacement of brake pads (or shoes). Whether composed of ceramic, semi-metallic, or organic materials, brake pads erode each time you depress the brake pedal. If the pads wear down too much without being replaced, then the metal housing for the pads will make contact with the metal rotors (or drums). Not only a safety issue but a situation where the rotors/drums need to be replaced as a result of the prolonged contact of metal parts without the pad buffer.
Time for Brake Service?
Your vehicle provides several warning signs before your brakes may reach the point of potential failure or extensive repair. Simply using your sense of hearing, sight and touch may alert you to potential problems. Here are some common questions you should ask yourself concerning your vehicle's brake system:
- Does your brake warning light come on when you are driving?
- Is your brake fluid low, or appear very dirty?
- Do you hear a grinding sound or a squealing sound when you apply the brake pedal?
- Do you feel a pulsation or some sponginess in the brake pedal when it is depressed?
- Does your vehicle steer or pull to one side when braking?
These are the most common signs that can suggest potential brake system problems that need attention. Any other sights, sounds or sensations in the brake system that seem out of the ordinary also should be taken into consideration. Most times, brake system problems only will escalate if disregarded.
Why Firestone Complete Fleet Care?
Technicians at Firestone Complete Fleet Care are trained to service today's complex brake systems. They can inspect your vehicle's braking system to ensure that it is functioning properly or to diagnose problems, offer suggestions and repair estimates. From brake pad replacement and servicing rotors to replacing brake cylinders and addressing Anti-Lock Brake System issues, Firestone Complete Fleet Care provides full repair service for all your vehicle's brake components. Additionally, we can perform routine maintenance as suggested by your vehicle's manufacturer. Most often this is a brake system flush, which involves the removal of air and moisture from brake lines and the replacement of brake fluid. Whatever your vehicle's brake system needs, Firestone Complete Fleet Care can perform the service to help ensure its proper working condition. Trust Firestone Complete Fleet Care for your vehicle's brake service maintenance and repairs.