Image via Bill Snethkamp CDJR.
A Jeep service is very different from visiting a mechanic. Our technicians are Jeep-trained repair experts, and we only use Jeep-approved replacement parts to provide the highest standard of repair. High quality and expertise are important for any repair, and even more so for a crucial system like your brakes. We’d like you to know a few signs you may need to visit us for brake service.
Brake Fluid Leak
Brake fluid provides the hydraulic power that allows the braking system to work. When you hit the brakes, pressurized brake fluid is forced through the hoses to the calipers. The fluid forces the pins out of the calipers, causing them to clamp against the spinning rotors. Each caliper houses a brake pad that generates friction against the rotor, and this friction stops your wheels.
Unlike most other fluids, leaking brake fluid can be difficult to spot. It’s thin, yellowish, and resembles cooking oil. While you might not spot a leak, you’ll feel fluid loss as the brake pedal must be pushed almost to the floor. The lack of fluid increases your stopping distance as your brakes take longer to engage. Our experts will trace and repair a leak, then refill the system with fresh fluid.
Screeching Noises
As we saw above, brake pads are a vital part of your braking system. Each pad has a 1/2″ thick rough covering that reacts with the smooth rotor to produce friction. The pad material slowly wears off, leading to a slight decrease in braking speed due to the reduced friction. Once a pad drops to 1/4″ after 25,000 to 65,000 miles, depending on your model and usage, the pad will need replacement.
The pad manufacturers install a warning inside the pads to alert you that it’s time to replace them. A metal spike is buried inside the material and becomes visible when the pad wears out. The spike will scratch against the rotor when you brake and produce an annoying high-pitched screech. We can replace worn pads in minutes, and your brakes will work effectively and quietly again.
Vibrations When Braking
If you brake and feel vibrations through the pedal, you may have one or more damaged rotors. Braking generates heat, which can liquify some of the brake pad’s adhesive. The adhesive will spread across the rotor and quickly dry due to the intense heat. As time passes, the dried adhesive will produce an irregular rotor surface.
When a pad grabs the irregular surface, it produces vibrations. We can fix this by cleaning the dried adhesive or resurfacing the rotor to turn it smooth and flat again.
If you have a brake problem, contact us today at Bill Snethkamp CDJR in Highland Park, MI.
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