Brake Repair

You should seek service if you hear squealing or grinding noises, feel a pulsation in the pedal, or notice the vehicle pulls to one side when braking. A soft or unresponsive brake pedal is another critical sign that your system requires immediate inspection. These symptoms can compromise the functionality of advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking. Answer

A squealing noise is typically caused by the brake pad wear indicators, which are small metal tabs designed to make contact with the rotors when the pads are thin. This sound serves as an audible alert that it is time for a brake pad replacement. In some cases, moisture or debris on the brake components can also cause a temporary squeal.

It is recommended that your brakes be inspected professionally at least once a year or approximately every 20,000 kilometres. However, your individual driving habits, frequent towing, or navigating hilly terrain can accelerate wear on brake components. Regular checks ensure that your braking system is always ready to perform when you need it most.

Brake pads are the friction material that clamp down on the rotors, which are the large metal discs that rotate with the wheels. The pads are designed to wear down over time, while the rotors provide the surface area for the pads to press against to create friction. The size and design of these parts are engineered specifically for different vehicle weights, from a smaller SUV to a heavy-duty truck.

The lifespan of brake pads and rotors can vary significantly, typically lasting between 40,000 and 100,000 kilometres, depending on the vehicle and driving conditions. Factors such as frequent city driving, aggressive braking, and towing heavy loads will cause these parts to wear out more quickly. Following the recommended service schedule is the best way to maximize their longevity.

A vehicle pulling to one side during braking is often caused by a stuck brake calliper, a collapsed brake hose, or unevenly worn brake pads. This creates an imbalance in the braking forces applied to the wheels, which is a significant safety concern. While electronic stability control systems can help maintain control, the underlying mechanical issue needs to be repaired promptly.

You can often replace just the brake pads if the rotors are still within the manufacturer's thickness specification and are free from significant wear or warping. However, for optimal performance and safety, it is often recommended to replace or resurface the rotors at the same time as the pads. This ensures the new pads have a perfectly smooth surface to mate with for even braking.

Driving with an illuminated brake warning light is not recommended, as it indicates a potentially serious issue within the braking system. The light could signal low brake fluid, a problem with the hydraulic system, or an issue with the anti-lock brake system (ABS). For your safety, you should have the vehicle inspected by a factory-trained technician as soon as possible.

A standard brake pad and rotor replacement typically takes between one and two hours to complete. More complex repairs involving callipers or brake lines may require additional time for diagnosis and service. Vehicles equipped with an electronic parking brake also need special procedures to retract the calliper pistons, which can add to the service time.