Brake Check and Pad Replacement In Houston, Tx

Brake pads are an essential component of disc brakes designed with a primary function to either bring the car to a complete halt or slow it down by way of a hydraulic system to the caliper each time a driver presses the brake pedal.

Since brake pads absorb heat and energy during braking and consequently are subject to a lot of wear, today, they are manufactured out of different materials to somehow mitigate this. The materials used can either be of semi-metallic, organic, or ceramic materials, each with unique benefits and drawbacks to keep in mind.

Regardless of the brake pads you have in your car, they need checking and replacing from time to time because imagine enjoying a leisure drive down the freeway, then you tap on the brakes but you can’t slow down no matter how hard you push. To prevent such a horrifying situation from ever happening, you need to schedule regular appointments with Uptown Automotive to guarantee your safety.

Types of brake pad wear

Brake pads are designed to apply pressure to the brake rotor in order to slow or stop a vehicle and if there’s uneven wear, your brakes need adjustment even replacement. There are different types of wear your brakes will experience for example;

·      Outer pad wear occurs when these pads continue to ride on the rotor even after a caliper release

·      Inner pad wear occurs when a worn seal, damage or corrosion obstructs the caliper piston to return to its rest position

·      Tapered pad wear is when the resistance material is worn in a horizontal or vertical wedge pattern

·      Lifted, cracked or glazed edges of the pads can be caused by either improper break-in procedure, overuse, defective pads, hydraulic system problems, etc

·      Overlapping friction can be as a result of having a wrong rotor or pad, wear on the guide pins, caliper or caliper bracket, etc

Signs of faulty brake pads

Brake pads are susceptible to just about any form of wear. Your brake system will give warning signs before going out of order, it is important not to ignore the signs and make an appointment with a trusted and certified mechanic as soon as possible.

There are two ways to check for brake wear:

First is listening then looking at your brake pads through the spaces between the wheel's spokes (space should be at least 1/4 inch of pad). Listen for a thumping sound or vibration, or a grinding sound which in this case, indicates complete wear. Another sign of wear is either when the brake pedal feels too soft or super hard or when the car hauls to one side after pushing the brake.

You may want to have your brake pads inspected or replaced by a mechanic when you hear a high-pitched screeching sound when you apply your brakes.

This happens when a small metallic shim known as an indicator has been compromised. An additional part called an anti-rattle clip is used to secure the pad when the brake is applied and if they are worn or broken, the pad vibration will cause squealing, and in this case, they must be replaced.

A lack of pad insulation or insulation shims or an incorrect rotor surface cut will cause squealing and clicking noises.

To many, maintaining the vehicle's brakes is something that is often overlooked but for about $115 - $500, you can prevent costly repairs in the future, and, more importantly, help you avoid a collision by simply visiting the auto body shop in Houston.

If you are interested in getting your vehicle looked at and have more questions or want a 100% Free Quote Today, contact us directly by clicking here.