How do you know if it's time for new brakes?
Your brakes are one of the most important safety systems in your vehicle. When you start to notice any signs that they aren't working properly, it's time to schedule a brake inspection right away. Bonus: From October 1-31, 2024 you can support our Brakes for Breasts Fundraiser and receive Free Brake Pads too! Click here to learn more about Brakes for Breasts. Keep reading to find 5 common signs that it might be time to book your brake inspection.
1. Strange Sounds:
Are your brakes making a squealing or screeching noise when you brake? Many brake pads have a built-in wear indicator that will squeal when the pads are ready to be replaced. If you hear these sounds, it's a potential sign that your brake pads need attention. However, this isn't always the case. Squealing can also happen due to dust or moisture on the brake components, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for awhile. If the noise continues, we would recommend a brake inspection to determine whether it's time to replace your brakes pads.
2. Vehicle Pulling to One Side:
If your car begins to pull to one side while driving or braking this could be a sign that you have uneven brake pad wear. It could also be due to a concern with the brake calipers or brake fluid. However, pulling can also be caused by tire or alignment concerns. It's important to have these things checked out as well. Our technicians will help determine the exact cause to ensure your vehicle is stopping safely and driving smoothly.
3. Vibrating Brake Pedal:
Does your brake pedal vibrate or pulse when you press down? This can often be a sign of warped brake rotors. However, it could also point to uneven tire wear, improper wheel alignment, or suspension concerns. If you feel these vibrations during normal braking conditions it's time to have your brakes inspected to determine the exact cause.
4. Soft or Spongy Brake Petal:
A mushy or soft brake pedal can be a sign of worn our brake pads, low brake fluid, or a concern with the hydraulic system, such as air in the brake lines. It's important to note that low brake fluid could be the result of a leak. If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy it's important to schedule a brake inspection. We want to address any underlying concerns and ensure that your brakes are working effectively, to keep you safe!
5. Thin or Worn Brake Pads:
If your brake pads are between 3-5mm thick (or around 1/8 inch) it's time to consider replacing them soon. If your pads are 3mm or less, it's time to replace them immediately. We want to ensure that you can fully rely on your brakes, especially in an emergency situation. Our technicians will measure your brake pads during your brake inspection. They will make recommendations of any necessary parts to replace.
Exciting News: The Brakes for Breasts Fundraiser is Coming in October!
This October will be our fifth year participating in the Brakes for Breasts Fundraiser! What does this mean for you? Thanks to our partnership with O'Reilly Auto Parts, we will be offering free brake pads to all our customers during the month of October 2024. Here's a sneak peak at how that works:
- During the month of October, our customers with cars and light trucks will be able to take advantage of our free brake pads special.
- You will only need to pay for the cost of labor and any other necessary parts to complete the brake service.
- At the end of the month, Graham Auto Repair will donate 10% of the total parts and labor from every brake service to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund.
- This fundraiser funds the research aimed at developing a vaccine to prevent breast cancer!
You can call us or book your appointment online today! Book your appointment for dates between October 1-31, 2024 to take advantage of this limited time offer. Click here to learn more about this fundraiser.
Want to Learn More Tips?
Comprehensive Inspections: Every service includes a thorough vehicle health inspection. We use advanced digital tools to provide detailed reports about your vehicle's health and wellness. You’ll receive photos and notes, making it easy to understand the current condition of your vehicle.
Expertise: Our experienced technicians complete annual training to stay up-to-date with the latest automotive technologies and techniques.
High Quality Parts and Service: We use high-quality parts for all repairs and services. This allows us to offer you a lifetime warranty on most parts and labor.
Customer Convenience: We offer after-hours pickup and drop-off to fit your busy schedule. We provide shuttle services for our local customers, and free loaner cars when scheduled in advance. Our air conditioned waiting area is supplied with drinks, snacks, Wi-Fi, TV, and a kid's play area.
