Sales: Mon -Sat 9am-8pm, Sun- 9am-7pm | Service: M-F 7am-5pm, Sat- 8am-12pm
Sales: Mon -Sat 9am-8pm, Sun- 9am-7pm | Service: M-F 7am-5pm, Sat- 8am-12pm
No one knows the way your car sounds and feels better than you. You’re the one that drives it the most, so you get used to how it feels. and sounds. and handles. The same is true of your brakes. You use them all the time, you know how they feel and sound, therefore when they “feel off”, you know something isn’t right. The bottom line is nothing lasts forever, especially your brakes. The good news for you if you live in or near Jurupa Valley, Anaheim, or Fontana, you can get professional brake service from Mark Christopher Auto Center. Our expert technicians are trained in the latest tools and techniques of the trade. They can help get your brakes back to feeling and sounding “normal” and get you back to safer driving.
When it comes to your brakes we offer the following:
It depends on climate, usage, brake parts, driving patterns, and more as to how long your brake pads will last. Brake pads can last anywhere from 20,000 to 80,000 miles, depending on multiple factors. Brake fluid can last from 2-5 years, but your owner’s manual can offer some guidance, so consult it first. Usually, brake inspections are recommended every 10,000-12,000 miles as a general rule, but you’ll probably know because you recognize the signs and symptoms of brake issues.
If your brakes aren’t working correctly, you’ll see the signs:
It’s generally recommended that you have your brakes inspected at least once a year. While this is a general time frame, it’s important to remember that anything can happen on the road. If you notice a new change or you’re worried about the integrity of your brakes, then you should schedule your service as soon as possible.
Are your brakes squeaking every time you hit the pedal? The sound can drive you crazy, but it’s actually a warning system. Most brake pads have squealer tabs that will make a sound when your brake pads become thin.
If you’re hearing grinding instead of squeaking, then avoid driving your vehicle until you see a mechanic. That grinding sound is likely the sound of your rotors being warped or damaged.
This question largely depends on your climate and your driving habits. There are also different types of brake pads that can play a part. It’s best to ask the mechanic for a detailed time frame, but they tend to last between 20,000 and 80,000 miles. At Mark Christopher Auto Center, our parts are designed to last.
Your brakes might have felt fine yesterday, but now your pedal is oddly stiff or spongy. If you’re noticing a change in how hard it is to press the pedal down, then it’s highly likely that you’re dealing with a brake fluid issue. You can visit our service department in Ontario for a closer look today.
There is a lot to list here, but we’ll do our best to note them all. There’s your brake pads (or shoes), your rotors, your calipers, your hoses, springs and adjusters, wheel cylinders, parking brake cables, your brake fluid, your wheel bearings and grease seals, and your master cylinder fluid exchange.
Your brake fluid is the only reason your vehicle is able to generate enough force to stop itself. When you hit the pedal, it immediately creates pressure in the lines. The brake fluid travels to each caliper, and your brake pads immediately spring into action. Once they’re pressed against your rotors, the friction brings you to a stop.
When your brakes are damaged, it’s going to take them a lot longer to do their job, which can affect your stopping distance. Bad brakes are also notoriously loud, so you’re likely to hear grinding, squeaking, and other sounds as you drive. In some cases, your car might even begin to drift to one side of the road if only that side’s brakes are worn. Since your brake system is vast, there are countless other symptoms to consider. If you’re worried, then it’s always best to get a mechanic’s opinion.
If you think you need brake service or an inspection, contact us at Mark Christopher Auto Center and schedule an appointment with our Service Center, or make an appointment online. Let us take care of all your automotive needs.