Hero image

Signs Your Brakes Need Attention and When to Service Them

Importance of Brake Inspections

When it comes to road safety, your car’s braking system plays an essential role. For young drivers, understanding the importance of regular brake inspections is a key step towards responsible car ownership. Ensuring your brakes are in top condition not only safeguards you but also protects passengers, pedestrians, and other road users. At On The Move Mechanical Repairs in Preston, we provide thorough brake inspections as part of our comprehensive car servicing. This ensures your vehicle meets legal safety standards and performs reliably on the road.

Braking System Explained

A car’s braking system is a complex yet fascinating mechanism designed to slow or stop your vehicle when needed. When you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid transfers force from the pedal to the brake components at each wheel. This force generates friction, which helps slow the rotation of the tyres, bringing your car to a safe stop. Regular servicing of this system is critical to maintain its performance, particularly for young drivers learning about proper vehicle care. At On The Move Mechanical Repairs in Preston, we ensure your braking system operates at peak efficiency, keeping you safe in all driving conditions.

Brake System Parts Explained

The brake system comprises several essential components that work together to provide safe stopping power:

Brake Pads: These create friction against the brake discs to slow the car.
Brake Discs and Rotors: These spin alongside the wheels and act as the surface for the brake pads to grip.
Callipers: These house the brake pads and use hydraulic pressure to press them against the discs.
Brake Drums: Found in some vehicles, they perform a similar function to discs but use brake shoes instead of pads.
Brake Lines and Fluid: These transfer hydraulic pressure from the pedal to the brake callipers.

Each part plays a vital role in ensuring your car’s braking system functions safely and effectively. At On The Move Mechanical Repairs in Preston, we inspect all these components during servicing to guarantee your safety.

Minimum Pad Depth and Symptoms of Wear

Brake pads are crucial to your vehicle’s braking system, and keeping them in good condition is essential for safe driving. In Australia, the legal minimum thickness for brake pads is 3mm. Once they wear below this depth, their ability to generate friction decreases significantly, compromising your car’s braking performance. We highly recommend replacing them before they reach this minimum.

Signs of worn brake pads include:
- A squealing or grinding noise when braking.
- Reduced braking efficiency or a longer stopping distance.
- A spongy feeling when pressing the brake pedal.

Ignoring these signs can lead to more costly repairs or even a dangerous driving situation. Regular inspections by On The Move Mechanical Repairs in Preston will ensure your brake pads are replaced before they become a hazard.

Brake Discs and Rotors Explained

Brake discs (or rotors) are a key component of your braking system, providing the surface for the brake pads to clamp down on. When the pads apply pressure to the discs, the friction generated helps slow your car. Discs are designed to withstand extreme heat and force, but over time, they can wear down or warp, reducing their effectiveness.

Regular inspections and servicing are essential to ensure your discs are in good condition. Worn or damaged discs often require replacement to maintain optimal braking performance. At On The Move Mechanical Repairs in Preston, we carefully check the condition of your brake discs during every service to keep you safe on the road.

Brake System Checks by On The Move Mechanical Repairs

At On The Move Mechanical Repairs in Preston, we understand the critical role your braking system plays in road safety. That’s why we thoroughly inspect your brakes during every car service. Our experienced mechanics check for:

- Wear: Ensuring components like brake pads and discs meet safety standards.
- Leaks: Examining brake lines and fluid reservoirs for leaks that could compromise braking performance.
- Damage: Identifying any cracks, warping, or other signs of damage in the brake system.

With regular brake inspections and servicing, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your car remains roadworthy. Our team is here to help keep your vehicle in top condition.

Book You Service Today

Your safety on the road starts with a well-maintained braking system. Don’t wait for a problem to arise – book your car in with On The Move Mechanical Repairs in Preston today. Whether it’s a routine service or a brake inspection, our experienced mechanics will ensure your vehicle is safe, reliable, and road-ready. Contact us now to schedule your service!

Expert car service

Let's get started with your booking.

Book nowContact us

Related articles

Thumbnail for Car Service in Preston & Heidelberg
Article
Car Service in Preston & Heidelberg

On The Move Mechanical Repairs offer car servicing and repairs for all makes and models, cars, trucks, vans, utes, forklifts, trailers, boats, motorbikes, commercial fleets and more. Plus RWC, Draeger Interlock Supplier and LPG Servicing & Repairs.

Read more
Thumbnail for European and Luxury Car Service
Article
European and Luxury Car Service

On The Move Mechanical Repairs have the expertise and knowledge to perform service, repairs and diagnostics on all European and Luxury vehicles...

Read more
Thumbnail for New Car Log Book Service in Preston
Article
New Car Log Book Service in Preston

On The Move Mechanical Repairs recommend maintaining regular service intervals to ensure your vehicle not only functions at it's top capability, but also maintains the new car warranty...

Read more