Question:
How do I know when my car really needs brake work?
Answer:
You need brake work when your brake linings are worn down to an unacceptable
thickness. The only way to determine if you need new linings is to have your
brakes inspected, preferably by a qualified mechanic.
Beyond your regular yearly inspections you should have your brakes inspected
if you are experiencing problems like pulling, grabbing, locking, low or soft
pedal, vibration, or any other changes you detect in your braking performance.
Question:
If my brakes are squealing, do I need a brake job?
Answer:
Not necessarily. Today harder semi-metallic brake pads are
used in most front-wheel drive cars and minivans. These semi-metallic brakes
can create noise that
is considered perfectly normal. This "normal noise" should not affect
braking performance and can often be eliminated.
However, glazed or worn rotors, rough finish on resurfaced rotors, loose brake
pads, springs or clips, rusty or worn caliper mounts, loose or broken parts
inside the drum etc. are examples of conditions that can cause noise problems.
Question:
My brake pedal slowly sinks to the floor, what does that mean?
Answer:
Your brakes need immediate attention! You either have a fluid leak or a defective
master cylinder. Check your brake warning light, if it's on you likely have
a fluid leak and your vehicle may not be safe to drive.
Question:
How do I find a reliable mechanic to service my vehicle?
Answer:
Ask your friends and people you know where they take their vehicles for service.
If they are satisfied with their mechanic, give him a try! Hopefully, you'll
be satisfied as well, and you won't have to shop around any further.
Question:
There is blue smoke coming from my exhaust, should I be concerned? ?
Answer:
Yes, your engine is burning oil. This means you engine has worn valve guides,
piston rings and/or cylinders. In short, your engine has worn out.
Question:
What can I check before I take my car on a vacation?
Answer:
- Start with your tires. Do you have a spare? Check for wear...if you
have uneven wear it's a sign of misalignment.
- Have a mechanic check out your vehicle, especially brakes, steering
and suspension.
- Check all fluid levels, such as oil, water, and transmission fluids.
- Pack only what you need for better fuel consumption.
- Pack an emergency road kit with first-aid items, a flashlight and spare
batteries, flares and tools.
- After you are on the road, keep your eye on the temperature gauge.
Long steep hills, extra weight and hot weather can contribute to overheating
your vehicle.
Question:
Do I need to warm up my car before driving?
Answer:
Yes. It takes a while before important fluids such as oil and transmission
fluid to flow through your vehicles system. If you want to extend the life
of your car, wait a full minute after you start your car before driving it.
Question:
I just had my brakes fixed but they still squeak. Why?
Answer:
Squeaky brakes are now quite common. New brake pads are made of slivers of
metal and other materials compressed together. These brake pads and linings
are much harder than the now obsolete asbestos.
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