THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD FUNCTIONING BRAKES

Clarksun Automotive

"You gotta have good brakes. If you have good brakes you can keep yourself out of a lotta trouble".

Brakes should be regularly inspected, at Clarksun Automotive Ltd we recommend having your vehicle test driven to see how the brake system works. Then a visual inspection, measuring pad and shoe thickness, check for even shoe and pad wear, check rotors for run out and hot spots, check hardware to make sure it is working properly and is also adjusted properly. Make sure wheel cylinders, brake lines and brake master cylinder are not leaking, inspect calipers for wear, free movement and fluid leaks, and check the level and condition of the brake fluid. Inspect proper routing and placement of the brake and antilock brake sensors.

All of these components need to be in good shape and working properly for the vehicle to have 100% brake system effectiveness while driving. For instance, did you know brake fluid is hydroscopic (meaning it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere). Brake fluid with high moisture content can corrode the system from the inside out and boil causing brake fade or failure.

If experiencing any of the following issues get immediate mechanical attention- low or spongy brake pedal, constant squealing or grinding brake noise, brake warning light on dash, vibrations or clunking noises when applying brakes.

We recommend having your brake system checked with each engine Service or at least every 6 months or 10,000 k's.

If you're wondering a Warrant of Fitness (W.O.F) inspection will check the performance of the brakes on the day, but it is not an invasive inspection so nothing is dismantled to monitor their wear or indicate how long the components are likely to last. It's up to the individual to ensure their vehicle is routinely maintained.