Regular Brake Inspection Serves to Detect Issues Before its Too Late
When driving on roads having the ability to stop or slow down is of utmost importance. Whether it be voluntarily or suddenly being able to stop ensures your safety and the safety of others. Therefore regular brake inspection and maintenance as well as prompt repairs to existing issues will serve to ensure this.
Brake inspection is so important that it should be conducted as regular as a scheduled oil change. Usually this includes a fluid level and condition check, an inspection of the brake pads/shoes for wear and a thorough manual check for fluid leaks.
Although brake fluid levels reduce naturally with frequent driving substantial drops below the mark on the master cylinder reservoir is most likely an indication of a leak in the braking system. If a leak is identified measures should be taken to rectify this immediately as this can cause a malfunction of the entire braking system.
Reside near a Seaside Area?
Most vehicle owners who reside in humid climates or by seaside locations usually experience issues with vehicle braking systems because a formation of a light rust coating accumulates on the brake rotors of vehicles.
As a result of this drivers experience metal to metal contact when applying brakes which can be very annoying as it produces a loud and irritating noise making any driving experience uncomfortable. Therefore if you reside by seaside or in humid locations be sure to have brake inspection conducted regularly to prevent this from occurring.
Warning Lights Indicate When Brake Inspection Is Necessary
When a vehicle is denied regular brake inspection and maintenance they usually encounter issues with the braking system. For example, the presence of certain warning lights that are most likely an indication of brake fluid levels that are low or there’s a loss of pressure in one of the brake system’s hydraulic circuits. Another important warning light associated with the braking system is the brake pad warning light. This light indicates when brake pads are in need of replacement as worn brake pads are a driving risk.
So in event that any of these warning lights become visible drivers must ensure that vehicles are promptly assessed and repaired so that they’re functioning as they should before taking to the road. For most vehicles brake inspection and other maintenance are typically performed when required however it is strictly recommended that this be conducted in the recommended time frame.
ABS and Modern Brake Tech
Brakes aren’t just pads and rotors anymore — modern cars rely on anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic brake sensors to keep you safe. These systems kick in during emergency stops, preventing wheels from locking up and reducing stopping distance. But here’s the catch: if your ABS warning light is on, your system may not work when you need it most. A regular brake inspection should always include an ABS system check so you’re not gambling with your safety.
Don’t Overlook Brake Rotors
Everyone talks about pads, but your brake rotors take just as much abuse. Heat, friction, and wear can cause them to warp, leading to vibrations every time you hit the brakes. Resurfacing or replacing rotors before they’re completely shot not only smooths out your braking but also prevents uneven pad wear. Skipping this step is like putting new shoes on with a cracked sole — it won’t fix the problem for long.
Real Cost of Ignoring Brake Care
Here’s the reality: ignoring brake issues costs more than just money. According to a 2024 AAA report, faulty brakes contribute to nearly 22% of road accidents linked to mechanical failure. Beyond the safety risks, letting your brakes grind down to metal-on-metal contact can turn a $200 pad replacement into a $1,200 full brake job. A quick inspection twice a year is a whole lot cheaper than paying for an accident — or explaining why you didn’t stop in time.
Get Top Notch Brake Inspection
It is highly recommended that vehicle owners only use the best mechanical services to inspect, maintain or repair any issues with vehicles. Here at All Round Auto Repair we offer the highest quality brake inspection, maintenance and repair services in Santa Rosa.
So whether your brake shoes or worn and need replacement or you suspect you have a leak in the braking system our professional and dedicated staff are highly trained to manage and rectify any issues you might have. Give us a call at 707 837-0646 to schedule your brake inspection or contact us via our website.
