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Brakes
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How often should my brakes be inspected?
Brakes should be inspected whenever the driver believes that the brake system is not working properly. Brake inspections are included in the annual Virginia state safety inspection. Also brakes should be inspected whenever tires are rotated on a 5000 mile interval.
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Why does my vehicle vibrate when I apply the brakes?
Brakes work when friction is created between a rotating component attached to the wheel assembly (brake rotors or drums) and a stationary component attached to the chassis (brake lining, shoes, or pads). The greater the friction, the quicker the vehicle is slowed or stopped. Heat is a natural by-product of friction. The effects of heat can be sudden (like severe application of the brakes while going down a mountain) or can accumulate over an extended period of time. Heat causes metal components to expand and they contract when they cool. This expansion and contraction causes warping or distortion of the metal rotors or drums. A vibration known as “brake chatter” is created when the rotating component that is crooked contacts the stationary brake pads or shoes.
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Is brake vibration dangerous?
A small or moderate amount of brake vibration can be a nuisance but it is not dangerous. Brake chatter is dangerous when it affects vehicle stability or stopping ability. Have your brakes checked by Central Tire whenever there is a concern that there is a safety problem.
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When should I turn (resurface) brake rotors or drums?
A brake lathe is used to remove surface material and create uniformity in brake rotors or drums. This should be done if there is a concern related to vehicle stability or safety. Otherwise postpone resurfacing until new brake pads or shoes are installed. This ensures matching of new components and a more satisfactory brake job. Also the more often components are resurfaced, the quicker a brake chatter will return and the sooner the component will be out of tolerance and need replacement. It should be noted that some brake rotors, especially those on foreign vehicles, cannot be resurfaced due to the lack of rotor thickness.
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What is that high-pitched squeak I hear when I am not applying my brakes?
It is probably a small spring-like device attached to the disc brake pad that warns the driver that the brakes are worn and in need of replacement. This noise starts intermittently and gradually becomes constant. You should have your brakes checked whenever any unusual noise is present.
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Where does the black film on my wheels come from and can I eliminate it?
The black sticky film on your wheels is a residue that is released as the brake lining wears. It is not only unsightly but it will eventually cause pitting of the surface of aluminum alloy wheels. The black film is evident in original equipment friction material as well as replacement parts. Certain ceramic friction materials claim to reduce the residue. This may change the performance characteristics of the brake system. Use caution when replacing brake material that differs from original equipment specifications. Central Tire believes that replacement parts should be of original equipment grade or better and should have the same performance characteristics as the original equipment specification.
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