4 Misconceptions About Your Car Brakes, Pads and Fluid

One of the most scaring thing about driving is your car not stopping when you want it to stop. Same scare arises when it can not slow down when you desire. If you’re not a professional or advanced driver who has lots of experience, you might not be able to handle the adrenaline rush.

No matter how sophisticated and powerful a car is, brake is still the most essential part of the car. When it comes to brakes, proper care should be given to it, else, it is prone to disappoint you.

Your brakes need to be in good condition, no matter what type of car you drive. You and those who are driving around you are always at the mercy of your vehicle’s braking system. Your brakes are a matter of life and death.

A lot of people still get some things wrong about the brakes and how they work; some of these misconceptions and their corresponding corrections.

1. Some think unless you hear grinding noise, your break is fine:
If you start hearing grinding noises from your brakes, something must be very wrong somewhere. This can finally result to brake disc damage if care is not taken.

When there is reduced responsiveness during braking, vibrations or a pulling to one side while braking, ensure you have your brakes checked.

It’s advisable you have your brakes checked every 6,000-7,000 miles to help you avoid the danger and expense of damaged brake discs.

2. It is normal for brake fluid to go below normal from time to time:
The break fluid won’t go low if everything about the brake is normal. Your brake might be working properly for a while and won’t lose its stopping power immediately.

When there is constant or time to time decrease in the brake fluid level, it can mean your brake pads or master cylinder need to be fixed. It could also mean that there’s a leak in the brake lines.  It also good you know a small leak of brake fluid today might be a disaster tomorrow.
Get it fixed!!!

3. Some think wet roads will cause your brakes not to work well:
A good set of braakes should work fine regardless of the weather condition. Hydroplaning and skidding are not caused by good brakes, though they may be the result of driver errors.

it is important to have your brake system inspected if it hasn’t been checked in a while and you know that severe weather is imminent.

4. You can use any brake pad sold out there:
It is not every brake pad that you buy is good for your vehicle.  All brake pads does not have the same quality.

Whether replacing brake pads yourself or leaving it up to a qualified mechanic, it’s vital to make sure any part you use is reputable and sound.