What Is a Brake Service and Why Is It Necessary for Your Vehicle’s Safety?
Calgary has some challenges when it comes to keeping your vehicle safe on the roads, but the most integral part of your car is still the brakes. From cruising Deerfoot Trail to battling the icy suburban streets in winter, brakes are an essential element to not only your safety, but that of your passengers and everyone else out on the road.
Most drivers only consider brake service when something seems “off” — a squeal, vibration, or longer stopping distance, for example. However, the reality is that brake service is one of the most valuable forms of preventative maintenance you can conduct on your auto. If you make the mistake of treating the braking system with negligence, it can end up costing you more than a couple of hundred bucks in repairs; it could cost you your life!
So, what is brake service anyway? Why does it matter so much? How often should you get it done?
What Exactly Is Brake Service?
Brake service is any service performed on any part of your car’s brake system – inspection of the braking system, maintenance, repair, or brake replacement. This includes:
- Brake Pads: These squeeze against the rotors in order to slow down your vehicle.
- Brake Rotors (Discs): These are flat, circular discs that rotate with the wheels and are clamped against by the brake pads to stop the vehicle.
- Brake Calipers: These contain the brake pads and use hydraulic pressure to push them against the rotors.
- Brake Fluid: The liquid you press down on when you step on the brake pedal, which sends your force to the brakes.
- Brake Lines and Hoses: These transfer the brake fluid to every wheel
Signs Your Vehicle Needs Brake Service
The brake problem is not always diagnosed overnight. Usually, there will be small indications that something is wrong.
- Squeaking or squealing: A high-pitched sound when braking often means your brake pads are worn.
- Grinding noise: This usually signals that the brake pads are worn down completely, and metal is rubbing against metal.
- Vibration or pulsing: Warped rotors or uneven wear can cause the pedal to pulse under your foot.
- Soft or spongy pedal: This may mean air in your brake lines or low brake fluid.
- Longer stopping distances: If it takes longer to stop than usual, your brake system may be failing.
- Brake warning light: If the light comes on your dashboard, it’s time to schedule a service — no questions asked.
Why Brake Service Is So Important
1. Safety First
Braking is the most important safety system in your vehicle. Having a good braking system keeps car control and fast stops at your fingertips, helping you avoid precious collisions.
2. Prevent Costly Repairs
Brake routine maintenance is much cheaper than waiting for a total failure. Brake pads are cheap to replace — calipers? Rotors? Your whole brake system? Not so much.
3. Improves Vehicle Performance
Your car rides smoother when your brakes are working well. With your brake system functioning properly, acceleration, deceleration, and handling all receive a boost.
4. Protects Your Tires
For instance, old brakes can cause unequal force to be applied to your wheels, resulting in tire degradation or even an alignment problem. That means even more repair bills later.
5. Increases Resale Value
Future buyers, or dealerships, appreciate seeing regular brake service records when it comes time to sell or trade in, which is a sign that the car has been taken care of.
How Often Should You Service Your Brakes?
While there is no single rule, here are some guidelines:
- Brake pads: Check every 15,000 to 20,000 km. Change after 30,000 — 70,000 km, depending on driving patterns.
- Brake fluid: Change every two to three years, or according to your manufacturer
- Annual complete examination: Once a year is a good general rule, more frequent if you drive in arduous conditions, which include steep hills, common stops, or winter climate
What Happens During a Professional Brake Service?
Not your average repair shop, but at a place you trust, a technician will:
- Inspect Brake Pads and Rotors: Measure thickness and look for uneven wear.
- Check Brake Fluid Levels: Look for leaks and test fluid quality.
- Inspect Calipers and Hoses: Ensure they’re functioning properly and not damaged.
- Test Brake Pedal Pressure: Ensure it’s firm and responsive.
- Replace Worn Parts: If pads, rotors, or fluid need replacing, it’s done on-site.
This process checks that all components of your braking system are functioning properly and gives you the peace of mind of knowing your brakes are working each time you get behind the wheel.
Why Choose Stealth Windshield Repairs for Brake Checks and More
We may be Calgary’s expert for Windshield Repair in Calgary, and Headlight Restoration Service, but Stealth Windshield Repairs also provides trusted brake inspections and basic maintenance services, because we know that every part of your vehicle relies on another to keep you safe.
Here’s why customers prefer us:
1. Honest, Straightforward Service
We believe in transparency. We will tell you exactly what is needed, how much your options will cost, and we do not sell you unnecessary services!
2. Fast, On-Site Convenience
Don’t have to drive your car across town and wait hours. Mobile inspections and services are available throughout Calgary, so you can get back on the road sooner.
3. Safety Is Our Priority
We have a service involving every aspect of your vehicle, from windshields to wipers, from headlights to brakes — everything we do is to help make your car safer. You can be sure that we are just as concerned about your safety as you are.
4. Calgary’s Trusted Auto Experts
We have been taking care of local drivers for years, and our reputation is built on quality, trust, and personalized service.
5. Affordable Preventive Care
It is not fair that brake service should have a high price. We help you identify problems early, which saves you costs and frustration in the long run.
Final Thoughts
You cannot afford to ignore your brakes, particularly not with Calgary so unpredictable on the road. So, whether you have squealing pads, mushy pedals, or simply have not had an inspection done in a while, get to it.
Yes, brake service is on the service checklist — but also on the checklist for preventing death.
Ready for peace of mind behind the wheel? Trust the team at Stealth Windshield Repairs for honest, reliable, and safety-first service. Book your brake check today — because when it comes to stopping power, every second counts.