Neglecting brake care can lead to costly repairs, compromised performance, and dangerous situations. To help maintain healthy brakes and promote road safety, it’s important to take some basic precautions and to keep up with brake maintenance. At Roy’s Quality Car Care, we provide expert brake service in the greater Hagerstown area. Here’s a look at four tips for keeping your brakes healthy.

Brake Fluid Checks/Replacement

Brake fluid plays a critical role in transmitting force from the brake pedal to the brake components. With regular use, brake fluid can accumulate contaminants, compromising its effectiveness and potentially leading to safety hazards. Your brake fluid level and condition should be regularly checked according to the manufacturer's recommendations. If the fluid appears discolored, it's a sign that it needs to be replaced. Even if the fluid looks okay, it should be changed at intervals specified by your manufacturer. 

Don’t Ignore Signs of Brake Trouble

Common signs of brake trouble include whining noises, grinding, a spongy brake pedal, and illuminated brake warning light. Because brakes are so crucial to your safety, it’s important to get to the shop ASAP when you notice a symptom of a problem.

Gentle Driving Habits

Your driving habits significantly impact the wear and tear on your brakes. Aggressive driving, such as hard braking and sudden stops, accelerates brake pad and rotor deterioration. To preserve your brakes and prolong their lifespan, practice smooth driving techniques. Maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles, allowing you to brake gradually and avoid abrupt stops. 

Professional Maintenance

Regularly scheduled maintenance visits enable the mechanic to inspect, diagnose, and address potential brake issues proactively. Brake pad replacement should be completed in a timely manner and regular professional brake service will help to ensure that parts remain lubricated, fluid is clean, and no serious problems are developing. 

Brake Service in Hagerstown, MD

For brake service in Hagerstown and the surrounding area, contact Roy’s Quality Car Care at (301) 288-3572. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!