Starting At $99.95 or $199.95 With Rotors!
Inspections for brakes is included in one of our services. If noticed in the inspection the brakes are low we offer semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads. In some cases the rotors will be worn down as well, we offer your standard rotors to carbon rotors.
How Can I Tell I Need Brakes?
- Reduced responsiveness. If your brakes are not as responsive as they should be or if the pedal "sinks" toward the floor, this could be an indication of a leak in one of the brake lines. It could be an air leak (in brake hose) or a brake fluid leak. One sign of a brake fluid leak is the presence of a small puddle of fluid when the car is parked. Brake fluid looks similar to fresh motor oil, but with a less "slimy" texture.
- Pulling. If your vehicle "pulls" to one side when braking, it may be a sign that the brake linings are wearing unevenly or that there is something in the brake fluid.
- Grinding or growling. This loud metallic sound means that you have worn down the pads completely, most likely beyond replacement. The grinding or growling noise is caused by the two pieces of metal (the disc and the caliper) rubbing together. This can "score," or scratch your rotors, creating an uneven surface. If this happens, do not be surprised if your mechanic tells you that the rotors need to be "turned" (a process that evens out the rotor surface), or even replaced.
Vibration. A vibration or pulsating brake pedal is often a symptom of warped rotors (but can also be that your vehicle is out of alignment). The vibration can feel similar to the feedback in the brake pedal during a panic stop in a vehicle equipped with anti-lock brakes.
- A sign of warped rotors is if the vibration occurs during braking situations when the anti-lock brakes are not engaged. Warped rotors are caused by severe braking for long periods, such as when driving down a steep mountain or when towing. Tremendous amounts of friction are created under these conditions, heating up the rotors and causing them to warp. The vibration is felt because the brake pads are not able to grab the surface evenly.
Whats The Difference Between Semi-Metallic & Ceramic?
Semi-Metallic: These pads are made out of a cheaper compound and generally wear faster. They also cause the black debris that builds up on rims.
Ceramic: These pads come in different grades but the lowest grade is a big step up from the semi-metallic. Ceramic pads are made out a stronger compound and don't cause the black debris around the rims. The higher the grade the stronger the compound. Better quality pads are less harsh on the rims as well.
How To Tell If Rotors Need To Be Replaced?
If, when you press your brake pedal, you find that you feel a vibration or wobble, it is very possible that the rotors have become twisted or warped. That will be more likely to be the case if you have been hearing a grinding sound a while and have ignored it. Brakes get tremendously hot when hit and the metal will easily warp. If you feel a wobble or vibration when you brake, it will be a warning that the brake pads are failing to make a good contact with the brake rotors.