Stop on a Dime: Essential Maintenance Tips for Your Car Brakes in Texas

 Stay safe on the roads with these expert car brake maintenance tips from Milstead Service Center

At Milstead Service Center, the safety of our customers is our top priority. We understand that brakes are one of the most important safety components of your vehicle. With the unpredictable weather and rough roads in Texas, it's crucial to understand the different types of car brakes and the maintenance they require to keep you and your passengers safe. Our team of ASE-Certified Technicians is here to provide expert brake repair and maintenance services to ensure your vehicle operates safely on the road.

An Introduction to Brakes

Car brake types include disc, drum, and anti-lock brakes (ABS). Disc brakes are typically found on the front wheels of a car and work by using a hydraulic system to squeeze a pair of brake pads against a rotating disc, slowing down the car. On the other hand, drum brakes are found on some vehicles' rear wheels. These brakes use a similar hydraulic system to expand a pair of brake shoes against the inside of a drum, causing the car to slow down.

Anti-lock brakes, or ABS, are a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during sudden stops or emergency braking. ABS brakes use sensors to detect when a wheel is about to lock up and then release the brake pressure on that wheel, allowing it to continue rotating and maintaining control of the car.

Maintenance Tips for Brakes

Regardless of your car's brake system, proper maintenance is essential to ensure your brakes work correctly and keep you safe on the road. Here are some tips for maintaining your car's brakes in Texas:

1. Check your brake pads regularly: Brake pads are the brake system component that wears down over time and needs to be replaced periodically. In Texas, where temperatures can get extremely hot, brake pads can wear down more quickly than in cooler climates. As a general rule, brake pads should be replaced when they are worn down to 1/8 inch or less.

1. Replace your brake fluid: Brake fluid is a critical component of your car's brake system, and it should be replaced every two years or as recommended by your car's manufacturer. Over time, brake fluid can absorb moisture, which can cause corrosion and damage to the brake system.

1. Inspect your brake lines: Brake lines are the hoses that carry brake fluid to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders. In Texas, where the roads can be rough and potholes are common, brake lines can become damaged or corroded. Regularly inspecting your brake lines can help you identify potential problems before they become serious.

1. Have your brakes inspected by a professional: If you notice any unusual sounds or sensations when applying the brakes, it's essential to have your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic like Milstead Service Center. Ignoring brake problems can lead to more significant issues, putting you and your passengers in danger.

1. Keep your car's wheels aligned: Proper wheel alignment is critical to ensure your car's brakes work correctly. If your wheels are misaligned, it can cause uneven wear on your brake pads and reduce the effectiveness of your brakes.

About Milstead Service Center

Milstead Service Center has been serving Conroe, TX, for over three decades, offering dependable and proficient services to car owners to ensure their vehicles stay in good working condition. At Milstead Service Center, they prioritize the safety of their customers' families. Their team of ASE-Certified Technicians follows Motorist Assurance Program Uniform Inspection Guidelines when inspecting a vehicle's braking system. They thoroughly inspect every component, such as drum brakes, disc brakes, brake pads, brake rotor, brake shoe, brake cylinder, cables, and hydraulic system. They only use original manufacturer parts and high-quality aftermarket replacement brake pads and brake system parts to ensure quality brake repair.

To receive reliable, skilled, and reasonably-priced car repair services, contact the experts at Milstead by dialing (936) 441-3500.

Milstead Service Center

2416 N Frazier St

Conroe, TX 77303