Taking Care of Your Brake Rotors
Vehicle owners understand that regular maintenance keeps their vehicles in perfect shape. The most common maintenance areas include checking the level of engine oils, maintaining the pressure of tires and monitoring the level of vital fluids in your car. Little attention is given to brake rotors yet they are among the most crucial parts of your vehicle. Failure to pay attention to these parts will result in inconveniences on the road which may lead to accidents. Brakes on your vehicle make the difference between safety and accidents.
Why Brake Rotors?
The braking system of any vehicle is expansive. It incorporates the discs, fluids, hub and other components that bring your vehicle to a halt. The pads clamp on the rotors to bring your vehicle to a halt. Depending on the stopping mechanism and uses of a vehicle, there are different types of rotors and pads. Each has unique properties like heat resistance and provision of a firm grip. These properties determine suitability for different vehicles.
Do I Need To Change My Rotors?
It is the dream of every individual to own a vehicle especially for convenience during movement. Every vehicle owner thus endeavors to keep the vehicle in perfect shape at all times. The areas that require regular maintenance include brake rotors. They give signals that they are worn-out and need replacement. What signs can a vehicle owner watch out for?
Conduct a deliberate road test-
it might be difficult to detect malfunction on your rotors during normal drives because your attention is on the road. To conduct a test successfully, use a deserted road which allows you to apply instant brakes without inconveniencing other motorists. Vary the speed before breaking to get a feel of the extent of wear and tear. It is best if you understand the performance at optimum level.
Squealing sound-
this is a high pitched noise that occurs once you apply the brakes especially on high speed. Others alongside the sound include the vehicle pulling to one side once you apply the brakes. It shows that pressure is being applied unevenly. A grinding sound also indicates that the pads are scoring or grinding on the rotors. Vibrations also indicate a faulty breaking system.
Replacing Braking Rotors
A driver should always be attentive whenever the vehicle produces unfamiliar sound. The idea is to identify the specific instances when the sound is produced. This is important for accurate diagnosis. The basic solution is to replace components of the brake system that are worn out. In fact, replacing brake pads falls under DIY tasks since it is easy, straight forward and does not require a lot of tools.
It is advantageous to engage an experienced mechanic or garage to safeguard the quality of work. A garage has all the tools and personnel required to successfully complete the replacement. However, you must be prepared to pay the price.
Your safety and control of vehicle on the road depend on the reliability of your braking system. Regularly check your Brake Rotors and other parts to ensure that they are in optimum condition. Involve an experienced and well trained technician in repair, replacement and maintenance of your vehicle.