Oh, Stop! (Disc Brake Service)
December 4, 2022
Every time you drive your vehicle, you wear down your brakes just a little bit. And after a while, that adds up. Gradually, your stopping power isn't like it used to be. Since brakes are one of your vehicle's most important safety features, it just makes sense to keep them performing well.
Most vehicles have disc brakes. One key component, as the name suggests, is the disc. Most vehicles have discs on their front and rear wheels. The discs (also called rotors) are made of metal, and each rotates with the wheel hub. Your brakes also have pads that make contact with the rotors when you press down on the brake pedal, and the friction stops your vehicle.
After many, many stops, that friction wears down both the pads and the discs and reduces their ability to stop the way you need them to. The discs may also become uneven from all the heat they generate, and your brakes won't stop as well as they used to when they were newer.
Some signs that your rotors need attention include vibration at the wheels when you stop, discolored rotors (the metal looks blue), excessively hot rotors, or grooves in the metal. If you see any of these signs, it's time to bring in your vehicle for us to inspect your brakes.
A technician will measure the thickness and trueness of the rotors and check the surfaces for wear. If they need to be replaced, they'll be done in pairs, so if a front rotor is bad, the other front rotor will also be replaced. Usually, your brake pads will be replaced at the same time. You can ask your service advisor if higher-performance brakes would benefit you.
When your vehicle is at the shop, the technician will check other components of your brake system to make sure they are operating safely. Brakes are vital to the safe operation of your vehicle. Keep them well maintained so they can be there when you need them.
Sovel's Auto Service
41425 W. 10 Mile Rd.
Novi, Michigan 48375
248-348-7337
Need Service?
More articles from Sovel's Auto Repair Novi
Start Me Up (Ignition Systems)
April 13, 2025
When you start up your gasoline engine car, you may not know that it's using the same ignition principles as it has for decades. You have spark plugs that require enough power so a spark can jump across a gap at its tip. Years ago, a vehicle's 12-volt system had to produce 15,000-25,000 volts t... More
Steering You Right (Power Steering Fluid Service)
April 6, 2025
Its important for safe driving that two of the most important systems in your vehicle work right. One is the brakes. The other is the steering. Nearly all vehicles on the road have some sort of power steering that allows you to direct a very heavy machine with little effort. There are two ty... More
Avoiding Exhaustion (EGR Valve Replacement)
March 30, 2025
No, ERG isnt the sound a pirate makes. Its a part in your vehicle that recirculates exhaust gas to reduce certain gases and pollutants in the atmosphere. In fact, ERG stands for Exhaust Gas Recirculation. One gas our vehicles may make when they burn fuel is nitric oxide, which can play a big ro... More