Drivers who know their vehicles will notice when something's not right with their brakes. The sound of metal against metal, squealing or high-pitched screeching when stepping on the pedal, are some of the first signs that are a brake repair, or a more major brake replacement will probably be necessary sooner rather than later. Where are the noises coming from and what is causing them?
To help determine whether you need a simple brake repair, such as turning the rotors, or whether a complete brake replacement is necessary, remember these basic brake facts:
What does Brake Pedal Pressure mean?
The pedal pressurizes the hydraulic system that pushes the pistons out of the calipers, contacting the brake pads and pressing them against the spinning brake rotors. The friction caused by the contact of the pad on the rotors converts energy into heat and slows the vehicle. Brakes don't just fail—they deteriorate. When one element of the system wears out, it seems to take the rest with it. A brake repair technician can determine where the squeal is coming from by eliminating serious system problems during an inspection of the brakes.
How do Brakes Wear Out?
The most common components of brakes to wear out are the pads. Fortunately, they are a simple inexpensive fix. Then, the next components in line for wear are the rotors. A brake pad, worn down to its backing plate, will eat grooves in the rotors. The rotors might be too thin or badly worn and will need to be replaced if they cannot be machined properly.
Can the Screeching and Squealing be silenced?
Even after your mechanic has inspected your brake system and determined that they are fully functioning, the squeal or screeching may persist. Your mechanic can advise you on some of the solutions that could potentially reduce the noise. There may be no guarantee that the noise can be totally eliminated, but you can be assured that your brakes are functioning properly in spite of the noise.
Need a professional brake repair? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889 for more information about our brake service. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
Drivers who know their vehicles will notice when something's not right with their brakes. The sound of metal against metal, squealing or high-pitched screeching when stepping on the pedal, are some of the first signs that are a brake repair, or a more major brake replacement will probably be necessary sooner rather than later. Where are the noises coming from and what is causing them?
To help determine whether you need a simple brake repair, such as turning the rotors, or whether a complete brake replacement is necessary, remember these basic brake facts:
What does Brake Pedal Pressure mean?
The pedal pressurizes the hydraulic system that pushes the pistons out of the calipers, contacting the brake pads and pressing them against the spinning brake rotors. The friction caused by the contact of the pad on the rotors converts energy into heat and slows the vehicle. Brakes don't just fail—they deteriorate. When one element of the system wears out, it seems to take the rest with it. A brake repair technician can determine where the squeal is coming from by eliminating serious system problems during an inspection of the brakes.
How do Brakes Wear Out?
The most common components of brakes to wear out are the pads. Fortunately, they are a simple inexpensive fix. Then, the next components in line for wear are the rotors. A brake pad, worn down to its backing plate, will eat grooves in the rotors. The rotors might be too thin or badly worn and will need to be replaced if they cannot be machined properly.
Can the Screeching and Squealing be silenced?
Even after your mechanic has inspected your brake system and determined that they are fully functioning, the squeal or screeching may persist. Your mechanic can advise you on some of the solutions that could potentially reduce the noise. There may be no guarantee that the noise can be totally eliminated, but you can be assured that your brakes are functioning properly in spite of the noise.
Need a professional brake repair? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at our Elk River auto center by calling (763) 441-2889 for more information about our brake service. Our auto shop in Elk River MN, also proudly serves residents in the areas of Zimmerman, MN, and Otsego, Minnesota.
