Dos and Don’ts of Your Brakes

When it comes to your brakes, do you know the low down? 

From maintenance and safety to driving etiquette, how you use your brakes make a difference! Here are some dos and don’ts when it comes to braking safety:

 

1.     Don’t ride your brakes – This common braking behavior can do more harm than good. If you keep one foot on your brake pedal at all times, you’re wearing out your brake pads and other mechanisms.

2.     Plan your slowdowns - Excessive braking will wear out your brakes faster. Your rotors and brake pads will need to be replaced sooner costing you more money in the long run rather than practicing safe stopping.

3.     Don’t use your brakes unless you need to – This may sound crazy, but rather than constant braking, instead maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you so that you don’t need to keep hitting the brakes. Tailgating will cause you to frequently brake, even increasing your risk of getting into an accident.

4.     Brake with your engine – If you release your accelerator, you’ll feel your car slow down. This driving technique will allow you to avoid unnecessary wear and tear on your braking system.

5.     Don’t slam on your brakes – If you slam on your brakes often, you’re causing unnecessary stress on your braking system including the pads, rotors, and calipers. This will also irritate drivers around you, so be safe out there! Of course, there are times when slamming on the brakes is necessary to avoid a collision, but you shouldn’t slam on your brakes as normal practice.

6.     Do bring your vehicle to an experienced shop to have your brakes inspected. – When was the last time you had your brakes inspected? Are you experiencing a squeaking or grinding noise when you try to stop? You may be in need of a brake replacement. Call ArborMotion for European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today! 

 

Happy motoring!