Chevrolet Brake Service in Baltimore, MD

The Brake System Explained

Everyone knows that a vehicle's brakes are the mechanism responsible for stopping the car. However, not everyone understands how this happens or the parts and equipment used. This complex process starts with the mechanical process of depressing the brake pedal. The brake pedal activates the hydraulic part of the system, pressurizing the brake fluid. Then, that pressurized fluid forces the brake pads to clamp down on your brake rotors or drums attached to the car's wheels. The ensuing pressure applied slows your wheels from turning and eventually stops your vehicle. Also, the harder you press the brake pedal, the quicker the car stops.

Modern brake systems use some form of an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Older brake systems would clamp the brake pads down on the rotors during hard braking and stop the wheels from turning, resulting in a skid because the tires stop rotating. Skidding creates an unsafe situation where the vehicle loses traction and control, unfortunately when you need them the most.

ABS automatically and rapidly pulses the brakes, keeping the wheels from locking up entirely. The continued rotation of the tires allows them to maintain traction and helps prevent skidding. Now, you have the control you need when you need it.

Warning Signs Your Brakes Need Service

Brake systems are more complex today than ever. Your brake system functions alone and aids in operating the traction control system and the stability control system. Inspecting your brakes will help you avoid potential breakdowns, but drivers should be looking out for signs of possible issues with brake systems.

Brake Feel

Drivers become tuned to their vehicle's operation, recognizing how things feel when you turn, accelerate, and brake. The more you drive, the more feel you develop. For example, you feel steady resistance when you depress the brake pedal. So, when you sense a difference in brake feel, you might have a problem. 

If the resistance feels softer or the pedal depresses faster and easier than usual, you could have a problem. Sometimes, the brake pedal sinks to the floor without any pressure, also indicating a problem. You should have your brakes inspected by our service center technicians immediately if you sense a change in brake feel.

Squeaking, Squealing, and Grinding Sounds

Your car's brake system should operate relatively silently, even with the friction created by the process. If you hear a squeaking or squealing noise while braking, it could indicate that your brake pads have worn down. Over time, the friction from braking wears out the brake pads, which have little metal pins inside. Once the pads wear to the point of exposing the pins, they hit your rotors or discs, causing squealing and squeaking noises. This alerts you that the brake pads need replacing.

You should schedule brake service immediately if you hear squealing or squeaking noises. Ignoring these sounds can cost you more money because the pins will begin to score your discs or rotors, compromising their construction. The cost to replace your brake pads runs from $100 to $150. Your car's rotors or discs can cost as much as $400 each.

Once the squealing turns to a grinding sound, it's too late to save your rotors. You might also hear or feel a vibration or thumping in your brakes. In this case, you might have a loose pad or something worse. You should immediately have your brakes inspected if you hear any odd noises.

Longer Stopping Times

You might notice your car takes longer to come to a complete stop than usual. If this happens, you could have a problem with your brake system. It might be worn pads, or it could be a drop in brake fluid level or a loss of pressure in the system. Remember, your brake system uses hydraulics to activate your brake pads, so any loss of fluid or pressure can compromise your ability to stop. Our trained technicians can quickly test your system to determine if you have a problem with your hydraulics or if it's something else.

Pulling Right or Left

Another sign of a brake problem occurs when your vehicle pulls sharply to one side or the other when you brake. If you experience this sharp pulling, have your brakes inspected by a professional right away. Pulling to the right or left could indicate a caliper malfunctioning, a brake fluid leak, or something else.

Warning Light Activates

Whenever a warning light activates on your vehicle, you should have a professional diagnose the problem. Warning lights serve as early indicators of failing systems, or they could indicate a complete system failure. Scheduling service quickly in response to warning lights often results in more minor, less expensive repairs. Conversely, waiting can result in larger, more costly repairs.

What We Inspect on Your Brakes

At Koons White Marsh Chevrolet, we inspect the entire brake system. Our technicians measure the free play in your brake pedal, the pedal's height, the depth it depresses, and the reserve space the pedal has left to travel. Our technician will check the brake fluid's level and its age. We test the brake lines and master cylinder for leaks and the many moving parts such as calipers and springs for proper function. The technician will measure your brake pad thickness, as well as your rotors, discs, or drums for wear.

Brake Service You Can Rely On

Our service center technicians at Koons White Marsh Chevrolet receive ongoing training to remain updated on all brake system repairs. In addition, our state-of-the-art service center uses the latest tools and equipment to diagnose and fix any problems you might encounter. If you think you have a problem with your brakes or simply want an inspection, we invite you to schedule service online.