Brake Service Q&A
Source: CARQUEST
Q: How often should my brake system be inspected?
A: Manufacturers' recommendation is that the brake system should be inspected every 12 months.
Q: What type of brake pads should be put on my vehicle?
A: Product that meets or exceeds original equipment specifications should be used.
Q: My brake pedal is very low. What could be causing that?
A: It could be one of these possibilities: air in the hydraulic system, the brake shoes are out of adjustment or there's a leak in the hydraulic system.
Q: My brake pedal pulsates and my steering wheel shakes. What could be causing that?
A: Rotors and/or drums are warped or distorted.
Q: My ABS light comes on and sometimes goes off. What could be causing that?
A: It could be one of these possibilities: worn-out brake pads, low brake fluid or worn-out wheel bearings.
Q: I hear squealing when using my brakes. What could be causing that?
A: It could be one of these possibilities:
1. Worn brake pads/shoes
2. Wrong brake pads/shoes
3. Improper rotor finish
4. Lack of lubrication
5. Worn- out hardware
6. Fatigued brake shoe hold-down springs
Q: How often should the brake fluid on my vehicle be changed?
A: Consult your owners manual for manufacturer recommendations. The minimum is every two years or 24,000 miles. It is very important to have your brake fluid changed. Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere. The longer brake fluid is left unchanged, the more moisture it will absorb. This moisture lowers the boiling point of the brake fluid. When brake fluid boils, it turns to a vapor, causing the brake pedal to fall to the floor. Saturated brake fluid will cause premature failure of the brake system components. Therefore, it is essential to have your brake fluid changed regularly.