Services
Automotive Brake Repair
Lowell's Auto Repair Provides a Brake Repair Services
The most common types of brakes are:
Disc brakes: Disc brakes use a caliper, brake pads, and a rotor to slow down or stop the vehicle. When you apply the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure pushes the brake pads against the rotor, creating friction and slowing down the vehicle.
Drum brakes: Drum brakes use shoes, a drum, and a wheel cylinder to slow down or stop the vehicle. When you apply the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure pushes the wheel cylinder out, causing the shoes to press against the inside of the drum, creating friction and slowing down the vehicle.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS): ABS is a safety feature that prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, which can cause the vehicle to skid. ABS uses sensors to detect when a wheel is about to lock up and modulates the brake pressure to that wheel to maintain traction.
Electronic brake force distribution (EBD): EBD is a feature that adjusts the amount of braking force applied to each wheel based on factors such as weight distribution and road conditions, to ensure that the vehicle stops evenly and quickly.
Parking brake: The parking brake, also known as the handbrake, is a mechanical brake that is used to keep the vehicle stationary when parked. It can also be used as an emergency brake if the main braking system fails.
The type of brakes your car has will depend on the make and model of your vehicle. Most cars today come with disc brakes on the front wheels and either drum or disc brakes on the rear wheels. Some high-performance cars and sports cars may have upgraded brakes, such as larger disc brakes or racing brakes, to provide better stopping power and handling.
Signs they need to be addressed
There are several signs that indicate that you may need to address brake repair for your car:
Squeaking or grinding noises: If you hear a squeaking or grinding noise when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign that your brake pads are worn down and need to be replaced.
Soft or spongy brake pedal: If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it, it could be a sign of air in the brake lines or a problem with the brake master cylinder.
Vibrations or pulsations: If you feel vibrations or pulsations when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of warped brake rotors, which can be caused by excessive heat or wear.
Warning light: If the brake warning light on your dashboard comes on, it could indicate a problem with the brake system, such as low brake fluid or a problem with the ABS system.
Longer stopping distance: If it takes longer than usual to come to a stop, it could be a sign that your brake pads are worn down or that there is a problem with the brake system.
If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to have your brakes inspected and repaired by one of our qualified mechanics as soon as possible to ensure your safety on the road. Additionally, it’s a good idea to have your brakes inspected regularly, typically every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer.