Brake Repair at Ames Ford in Ames, Iowa
Brakes are what keep you from hitting the car in front of you. It’s always good to get them checked or repaired when necessary, and the process may be simpler than you once thought!
Why Brake Repair is Important
Brakes are an essential safety feature of your car. Preventing accidents by slowing down effectively is important, even on cars that don’t belong on the track. Everyone needs to be able to stop on a dime.
When You Should Get Brake Repair
Brakes change over time, and it can be easy to overlook gradual changes to your braking system. That’s why it’s recommended that you get your brakes checked for possible repairs every six months.
If you notice any changes to your braking system, like extra noises when braking, loss of braking power, or spongy brakes, you know for certain it’s time to get your brakes repaired.
The Brake Repair Process
Before a mechanic repairs the brakes, they need to understand the problems that your brake system has. Below are aspects of a brake system inspection that ensure your technician knows what to fix.
1. Check Brake Pads
It’s common for brake pads to wear down over time
2. Check Rotors
Rotors are what the brake pads press against to stop the vehicle. They’re more expensive to replace than brake pads.
3. Check Wheel Cylinders
If the brake fluid is leaking, it will sometimes leak onto the wheel cylinders
4. Examine Brake Line and Brake Hose
Flushing, patching, or replacing parts of the line may need to be done
5. Fix the Problem Once Diagnosed
After checking all of these parts, your mechanic will have a good idea as to the nature of the problem and know how to fix it.
Cost of Brake Repair
Brake repairs generally fall in the $100-$800 range. Repairs on the less expensive end include brake fluid flushes and brake pad replacement. More expensive repairs include a rotor replacement.
Questions to Ask Your Service Technician
It’s essential to understand what your service technician did to fix your brake system and how long these fixes may last. You’ll want to get an idea of the division of cost between parts and labor as well.
Always let your technician know, if possible, when the last time you had the brakes looked at was, as well as everything you noticed about your braking problems.
Signs of a Quality Brake Repair
If you notice a substantial improvement in your braking system after the brake repair, and the problem you brought it in for is resolved, that’s a clear sign of a solid brake repair. However, if you’re still experiencing the issues you brought it in for, that may be a sign of a shoddy repair.
Caring for Your Vehicle After Brake Repair
Extending the lifespan oyour brakes can cut down on costs over time. This includes avoiding gas-to-brake driving and coasting more. This allows the vehicle to slow down naturally and puts less stress on the brakes over time. Avoiding start and stop traffic will also extend the lifespan of your brakes.
If you notice any, even slight, loss of braking power, it’s worth considering bringing the vehicle in for a brake inspection before the problem grows larger and more expensive.
Contact Our Service Department in Ames, Iowa
When you’re ready, it’s easy to schedule your next brake repair at Ames Ford. You can schedule service online, call us at 515-233-1913 or just drop by when we’re open. Serving the Ames area community is what we do at Ames Ford.