When it comes to your vehicle, eventually you will need both maintenance and repairs. Keeping up with all of your car or truck's needs can feel a little overwhelming at times. However, it's important to be knowledgeable about your vehicle's needs; not paying attention can mean expensive repairs down the road. Your brakes are one component of your vehicle that you cannot ignore. Failure to maintain or repair your brakes can be dangerous. Here are three things that you should know about your vehicle's brakes.
Brakes Need Maintenance
When it comes to maintenance, many drivers simply think that getting their oil changed is enough. However, there are plenty of other maintenance tasks that need to be performed regularly. Brakes need some maintenance, just like other parts of your vehicle. Brake maintenance involves inspecting the brakes, brake pads, the shoes, and the rotors in order to determine if anything needs to be replaced or repaired. Your brake system should be inspected somewhere between 20,000 and 60,000 miles. Your brake fluid should also be checked regularly and replaced every two years.
The Signs When There Is Something Wrong
Another thing you should know is that when it comes to your brakes, there are some tell-tale signs that something may be wrong. Unlike other parts of your vehicle, whenever your brakes are having problems, it's usually pretty obvious. If your breaks are squealing and making noises when you press down on them, they should be inspected immediately. Other signs that your brakes are malfunctioning include vibrations when you press down on them, or a lack of pressure when you press down. If you notice any of these signs, there is a good chance that your brakes need to be repaired or replaced.
The Cost Of Repair
Another thing that you should be aware of when it comes to your car or truck's brakes is the cost of repair. The average cost to repair brakes ranges between $130 and $900 per axle. Having your brakes repaired at an independent mechanic tends to be less expensive than going to a car dealership. You will also have to have your brake pads replaced every few years; the harder and the more often you brake, the more frequently you will have to replace your brake pads. The average cost to replace brake pads is between $100 and $300 per axle.
Brakes need regular maintenance that includes having them inspected as well as changing the brake fluid every couple of years. You should also be aware of signs that your brakes may be failing, some of these signs include squealing and vibrations when you press down on the brakes. It's also important to know how much it costs to have your vehicle's brakes repaired, and the cost to replace the brake pads.
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