Typically, drivers don’t know that their car needs new brakes until they bring it to a repair shop for an oil change or to address a problem.
While performing an oil change, our technicians do a tire rotation and look over the vehicle. During this courtesy inspection, we may find that it requires new brakes or they are reaching the end of their lifespan.
To pass the annual state inspection, brakes must be a least 2/32 of an inch. However, we suggest replacing them when they get to 3/32 or 4/32 of an inch, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions.
Read more about brakes and the Virginia safety inspection.
When you go in for your next oil change, it’s a good time to have all four of your brakes checked.
Signs that new brakes, brake repair are needed
Overtime, you may start to notice certain signs, such as squealing and the vehicle taking longer to stop.
If you put off replacing brakes, it will likely lead to further damage down the road.
How often brakes need to be replaced depends on many factors, including the make and model. Driving behaviors, how much someone drives, and stop and go traffic also play a role.
Generally, brakes can last anywhere from 36,000 to 80,000 miles. We have replaced them at 18,000 miles, which was extremely low.
It’s important to make sure the types of brakes put on your car are of good quality and meet Original Equipment (OE) specifications, because the way the vehicle safety system works they are programmed to operate with certain types of parts.
If you put inferior parts on, the systems like Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), Traction Control System (TCS), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may not perform correctly.
Sometimes, brake repair is needed between brake jobs.
These are some symptoms that a vehicle is in need of brake repair.
Brake services we offer
HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire offers an array of brake services.
Our technicians can replace various components. These include: the master cylinder, vacuum or hydraulic boosters, brake lines, calipers or wheel cylinders, brake pads and rotors, and brake drums and shoes.
We are also able to replace the entire parking brake system, whether it’s electric or not. The parking brake is made up of the handle or pedal, and linkage from the handle or pedal to the rear caliper or shoe.
Brake fluid exchanges are performed at HomeTowne Auto Repair, as well.
Recommended every 30,000 miles, this service prevents corrosion from building up on the inside of the calipers.
If your Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) warning light comes on, we can look into that too.
The brake system is made up of many parts, and it’s important to keep up with it. If you notice something out of the ordinary, it won’t hurt to call a local repair shop and ask them about it.
HomeTowne Auto Repair & Tire is an authorized Michelin and BFGoodrich tire dealer located in Woodbridge, Virginia. Automotive repair services are performed on all makes and models, including oil changes, brakes, alignments, inspections, and computer engine diagnostics.