Your brakes are among the most crucial components in your vehicle. They directly impact safety, performance, and resale value. But like any other part of your car, they can wear down with regular use. If you notice that you’re having to depress your brake pedal more, or hear a loud grinding noise when you step on the brakes, it’s time to schedule a repair. Keeping up with brake service near me helps ensure your safety, while also protecting the other systems in your vehicle.
A brake repair can be a simple or complex job, depending on what’s wrong with the system. A small problem like a brake light on your dash board may only require a fluid flush, while a faulty sensor or broken pads might call for more extensive repairs. The best way to determine the proper repair or replacement for your vehicle’s brakes is to have it inspected by a professional technician.
To perform a basic brake check, your Earnhardt Lexus service technician will start by testing the master cylinder and the brake lines. They’ll look for signs of leaking and contamination. They’ll also check the brake pedal reserve distance, which is the distance from the floor of the car to where the master cylinder starts to apply pressure.
Next, they’ll remove the wheels and inspect the lug nut holes and hub for excessive movement or hazards. They’ll then check the caliper assemblies for a variety of problems, including rusted caliper slides and physical damage. They’ll also measure and inspect the rotors, which are in contact with your brake pads during braking. They’ll also check the rotor finish to make sure it isn’t worn down or damaged.
If the brake rotors are found to be in good shape, your technician can resurface them for you. This process smoothes out the surface of the rotor, which improves your vehicle’s ability to stop. If the rotors are found to be damaged or worn out, they’ll need to be replaced.
The technicians will then pop the hood and visually inspect the engine area, as well as the master cylinder, brake lines, power booster, vacuum hose, and combination valve. They’ll also inspect the hoses and lines for cracks, leaks, or other physical damage.
Finally, the technicians will inspect the brake hoses and calipers. They’ll make sure the caliper slides are properly aligned and that they’re not seized to the wheel cylinders or brake drums. They’ll also lubricate the caliper slides and brake pads, as well as check the brake fluid to make sure it is at the proper level and doesn’t show any signs of discoloration or contamination. If the brake fluid is found to be low, the technician will top it up.