Why Proper Brake Maintenance is Crucial for Your Vehicle's Safety
The brakes are one of the most vital components of any automobile. They are responsible for bringing the vehicle to a halt, making them a key part of the vehicle's safety systems, as they are the first to act in emergency situations. Therefore, it is essential to pay close attention and perform regular maintenance. Failure to do so can lead to a decline in braking performance and the emergence of annoying noises, which can be avoided by always using the same brand and model of brake pads, as explained by experienced mechanic Iván Cabanas.
Why Proper Brake Maintenance is Crucial for Your Vehicle's Safety
In one of his latest videos posted on his social media channels (@motortips_), Cabanas explains one of the most common reasons for the bothersome noise generated by brake pads when pressing the pedal. It has to do with the use of non-original brake discs and pads, a problem that can be solved by installing recommended components from the manufacturer. View this Instagram post:
A post shared by Ivan Cabanas Trashorras (@motortips_)
Cabanas uses a car he has just fitted with new brake discs as an example. On the surface, red and green marks can be seen, providing an idea of how far the pad extends and, consequently, where wear on the disc will occur due to the friction during braking. Next, the mechanic places a non-original pad and it can be seen to occupy a larger area than the factory pad.
Iván explains that when changing pads but not the disc, it is recommended to install the same type and model of pad, as it fits perfectly into the worn area of the disc. If different pads are installed, especially those with a larger friction surface, they must adapt to the disc's irregularities, generating that noise that we have all heard at some point in a vehicle's brakes.
"If your discs last through several sets of pads, you should always use the same brand and model of pads to avoid noise and have a higher efficiency in the system," assures Cabanas in the video description, and reminds viewers that "discs do not get resurfaced, when they wear out, they must be replaced."
What to consider when maintaining your brakes
While discs and pads are the components that receive the most attention during brake maintenance, they are not the only elements that require periodic inspections. The braking system is composed of a set of hydraulic and mechanical parts whose correct functioning is essential to maintain braking performance and ensure vehicle safety.
One of the most important elements is brake fluid. It is a hygroscopic fluid, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. This characteristic causes it to lose properties and its boiling point to decrease, so in an intense braking, especially when the vehicle is hot or humid, the fluid may not provide adequate braking power, potentially leading to accidents.
For this reason, it is crucial to check the brake fluid level regularly and top it off as needed. It is also recommended to have the fluid changed every two to three years or according to the manufacturer's guidelines, as its properties can deteriorate over time.
Other key components to inspect during brake maintenance include the brake calipers, which must be free of dirt and corrosion, and the brake hoses, which should be checked for signs of wear, cracks, or leaks. The brake pedal should also be examined for any signs of wear or damage, as a worn-out pedal can affect the brake system's overall performance.
By paying attention to these details and performing regular brake maintenance, you can help ensure your vehicle's safety and prolong the life of its braking system.