Replacing Brake Discs And Pads
Cramlington, Northumberland
Brakes are required for reducing the car speed for different situations on the road. These include quickly stopping to prevent a collision or to halt at traffic signals slowly. Hence, the brakes are essential for the car driver's safety and other road users, so the car owner should ensure the brakes are correctly maintained.
How do I know when my brakes need changing?
For road and vehicle safety, the driver should have their vehicle inspected as soon as any of the problems listed above occur. Some of the symptoms of broken brakes and needing replacement are discussed below:
Grinding
Friction causes the material covering the brake pad to wear out. When the brake pad covering is almost completely worn away and the metal calliper is exposed, a grinding sound will occur. The brake disc is also more likely to be damaged when the cushioning material is not present.
Show moreSqueaking
The brake callipers may remain stuck, and the brake pads remain partly applied to the disc.
For other vehicles, the brake pads are designed with wear indicators which will squeal to inform the drive that the brakes will have to be changed. In either case, the driver should check the brakes.For other vehicles, the brake pads are designed with wear indicators which will squeal to inform the drive that the brakes will have to be changed. In either case, the driver should check the brakes.
Pulsating
If the user finds that the brake pedals are pulsating continuously when the brakes are applied, it could indicate that heating has made the brake discs warped. Since the brake disc has become uneven, the brake pad does not make proper contact with the warped surface resulting in pulsation. In some cases, the ABS kicks in when the brakes are applied firmly, resulting in pulsating. The driver should get it checked if this happens repeatedly or if he is worried about safety.
Show morePulling
If the car moves to the right or left side when brakes are applied, it is usually because of a seized calliper, or another hydraulic, mechanical component stuck. Inspecting the vehicle could identify the exact reason why the car is pulling to one particular side.
Show moreOld Brake Fluid
Brake fluid is hygroscopic since it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, and this changes the mechanical and other properties of the fluid. This change in composition adversely affects the braking system. It is known that after two years of use, there is a significant change in the composition of the fluid. Hence, it is recommended that the brake fluid be changed after two years, though it is advisable to consult the manufacturer's handbook.
Show moreSoft Brake Pedal
One of the most severe problems in the braking system is when the brake pedal becomes limp and touches the floor when pressure is applied. In this case, you should inspect the vehicle immediately to identify the fault. While spoiled brake fluid is the main reason for a soft brake, other reasons like a fault in the master cylinder could also result in brake problems. It would be best if you relaced the ineffective fluid in the brakes as soon as possible.
Show moreHigh Handbrake
In most modern cars, the handbrake should work with six to eight clicks. If it is pulling higher than this, it will require some amount of adjustment for optimal performance. The car will not pass the MOT test if the handbrake lever reaches the end of the travel.
Show moreSponginess
In some instances, the brakes do not work, and the pedal appears to be sponge-like. It usually indicates that the brake fluid is not flowing through the system properly because of the air entering the brake lines and affecting the fluid.
Show moreBrake Dashboard Light
If the brake's warning light on the car dashboard is flashing when brakes are applied or continuously, it means that the brake fluid level is deficient. It could be due to a leak in the hoses of the brake system or other parts.
Show moreHow to replace brake discs
Unless you have the knowledge and time to change your brake discs, it is always best to get a professional to do it for you. It will give you peace of mind they have been replaced correctly. Our team at Cramlington Car Parts Ltd can replace the brakes on any vehicle model or make and offers the broadest possible selection of brakes, regardless of size and shape. So, if your brakes need replacing, we should be able to install your new brake pads and discs do it the same day.
How to Make Your New Brakes Last Longer
Coasting: The harder you brake, the more wear and pressure it puts on your brake pads.
Look ahead of you: Make sure that you always look into the distance and anticipate any braking you will have to do in the time before you get to the junction or hazard.
Unload the car: Remove unrequired items kept in your vehicle. The heavier the vehicle is, the more strain it will put on your brake pads.
Don't follow other people's habits: If other people drive in a way that damages their vehicles' brakes, make sure you don't copy their driving habits.
Consider regular journeys you make: Rapidly accelerating and decelerating is unlikely to save you much time on your trip and could put a strain on your brakes. If the route is the same for each trip, consider in good time all the traffic lights, roundabouts etc., that cause you to brake.
Get your brakes serviced: Having your brakes checked regularly will prevent any significant issues from developing, causing costly repairs.
How much does it cost to replace brake discs and pads?
Most garages charge different prices to replace brake and disc pads. Here at Cramlington Car Parts Ltd, we offer incredibly competitive prices. Call our team today for a free quote.
How long do brake disc and pad replacement take?
Replacing a pair of brake discs and pads takes between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the model of your car. It is the same for the front and the same for the rear.