Car brakes undergo a lot of daily pressure on the road, which inevitably wears them down. But it’s unwise to wait until something goes wrong with your brakes before you take them in for servicing. Let’s look at the key reasons to visit your local Ford dealer for routine brake service regularly and how often to have it done.
Avoid Brake Failure
Above all else, periodical brake servicing saves you from
the danger of catastrophic brake failure. Over 300,000 road accidents happen
each year because of bad brakes. Many of these crashes could no doubt have been
avoided with more frequent brake servicing.
Most brake problems develop slowly over time due to poor maintenance. When you
take your car in for a checkup, a technician can spot an early warning sign of
brake trouble and nip it in the bud.
Know the Condition of Your Brake Pads
The brake pads are the part of your brake mechanism that
wear down the quickest. Under ordinary driving conditions, brake pads need to
be replaced every 20,000 to 30,000 miles.
While inspecting your brakes, a technician can tell you roughly how much longer
your pads have, so you’ll be ready when the time comes. This might save you
from suddenly needing pads just as you’re beginning a long journey.
Replace Damaged Rotors or Drums
The rotor discs of modern cars are remarkably durable, as
are drums, which are still used in the rear braking mechanisms of some Ford
models. But overheating and other issues can sometimes cause both rotors and
drums to warp or come slightly out of alignment.
If you have a damaged rotor or drum, your braking force will be diminished. But
you might not notice the problem until a technician takes a look.
Catch Potential Leaks Early
Leaking brake fluid is among the most dangerous brake
problems. When brake fluid leaks out of its hoses, hydraulic force is lost. The
brake pedal will feel spongy underfoot, and you’ll lose stopping power.
A leak is usually caused by a loose or misaligned part of the braking
mechanism. It might be a problematic brake line, master cylinder, piston, ABS
module, rotor, drum, or caliper assembly. During a brake servicing visit, your
technician will find any such problem and fix it before it leads to a leak.
Have Brake Servicing at Your Local Ford Dealer
Most drivers have their brakes serviced each time they have their motor oil changed and their tires rotated. This should all be done twice a year under normal driving conditions. And if you commute in rush hour traffic every day, with lots of stop-and-go driving, you might need to have your brakes inspected a little more often.
Visit Crain Ford of Jacksonville today for an in-depth brake inspection by qualified technicians. We have an excellent range of new and used vehicles and courteous, knowledgeable staff ready to help.
Image via Ford.
