Vehicle Care Resource Centre

BRAKE PAD REPLACEMENTS & MORE IN CAMPBELL RIVER

Brakes are arguably one of the most important parts on any vehicle and certainly are the first key to a vehicle's safety. Often these vital parts get overlooked until the vehicle needs emergency brake repairs.

It isn't just the possible unwanted costs of serious brake repair or brake pad replacements in Campbell River that is at stake when brakes go overlooked. It may seem obvious, but brakes are essential for the function of the vehicle and well being of drivers, and when brakes fail they can cause serious injury and damage, so brake maintenance should be one of the top priorities for upkeeping any vehicle.

So, when do you know if it is time to get your brakes serviced? When do you need to get your brakes replaced?

It is important to know how to keep brakes maintained so that the longevity of the whole braking system lasts longer, saving you time and money, not to mention avoiding any possible damages that can be caused by delayed or erratic braking to other drivers or vehicles. The first step is to know the basics of how brakes work.

Most modern brakes work on a hydraulic system where brake fluid is forced through the brake lines that in turn cause the brake pad to engage the brake disc rotor. It is this friction between the brake pad and the rotors that cause the vehicle to stop.

When it comes to brake repair and maintenance it is important to check the vitality of the brake pads relatively often. These pads wear down over time and will affect the quality of gripping power your brakes have.

It is also important to make sure that the brake fluid does not become overly contaminated. Over time the fluid can get mixed with copper and moisture causing anything from uneven braking to delay time in braking. If this is left unchecked then it could quickly lead to those costly brake repairs and dangerous driving consequences.

There are certain signs that a vehicle needs a brake service that should not be ignored. Noises like squealing and crunching could be a big sign. Brake pads are designed to make a high pitched squealing noise when they have about 25% life left. It is important not to ignore this for long, either. Occasionally with longer-life brake pads they may just squeal from regular wear, and will not need replacing, but it is good to make sure, especially if it has been awhile since the brakes have been inspected.

If the squealing isn?t coming from the brake pad it could also be coming from moisture build up on the rotor. This is also a serious sign of possible damage because rotors can rust very quickly.
Squealing can also be caused by unusual wear and tear to the brake lining. If this is the case this could damage the pads, rotors, and the brake drums over time, resulting in an entire brake system replacement.

Of course, other signs to be aware of are:

  • Brake system warning light
  • Soft or unresponsive brake pedal
  • Slow braking time
  • Vehicle pulling to one direction or another

It can be easy to ignore the signs, especially if the brakes appear to be functional. Brakes are designed to have built in warnings like the squealing at 25% so that there is time to repair the brakes before any serious consequences occur, but don't wait too long. Many of the general maintenance and repairs are cost effective if handled in responsible and timely ways. In the same fashion that regular oil changes are expected for the life and longevity of the engine, it is recommended that brakes are regularly inspected and maintained. So when you're ready to get your brakes maintained or get brake pad replacements in Campbell River, contact us or visit Downtown Downtown Tyee Chevrolet Buick GMC!

GET YOUR NEXT TIRE CHANGE IN CAMPBELL RIVER

Tires are an important part of keeping your vehicle rolling, so what is the best way to maintain your tires?

Through the life of any vehicle changing the tires will be necessary. Sometimes this is just because of wear and tear, as tires wear down over time, and sometimes this is because of detrimental impact or damage to the tire. Knowing when to replace the tires, or when a tire might be repairable will help you save money and remain safe on the road. Book an appointment for your next tire change in Campbell River at Downtown Tyee Chevrolet today!

Tires degrade over time, but there are measures that should be taken to maximize the life of the tire, and maintain the efficiency and how your car handles on a set of tires.

Tire rotation is recommended to help keep tire wear even. In front wheel drive vehicles the front tires often wear faster than the back tires, and vise versa with rear wheel drive vehicles the rear tires will wear more quickly. This is why tire rotation is recommended to maximize the life of the tires by periodically swapping out which set is taking the brunt of the wear.

It is recommended that tires are rotated every second oil change, or somewhere between 4,000 and 10,00 km, or every six months. This is dependent on how unevenly the tires are wearing, how hard the car is being driven, and what your car manual or a professional recommends.

It is also a good idea to keep a frequent eye on the air pressure as this can also contribute to uneven wear and potential hazards.

Tires are an important part of keeping your vehicle rolling, so what is the best way to maintain your tires?

Through the life of any vehicle changing the tires will be necessary. Sometimes this is just because of wear and tear, as tires wear down over time, and sometimes this is because of detrimental impact or damage to the tire. Knowing when to replace the tires, or when a tire might be repairable will help you save money and remain safe on the road. Book an appointment for your next tire change in Campbell River at Downtown Tyee Chevrolet today!