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Braking News: Why routine brake maintenance is critical to the driving experience

May 17, 2023

Test Services

Braking News: Why routine brake maintenance is critical to the driving experience Braking News: Why routine brake maintenance is critical to the driving experience

Brakes are like traffic lights — when they are working properly, they promote safety — when they are broken, they cause chaos. That is one of the main reasons brake-related recalls made up 6% of all car recalls in 2022, which led the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to issue 57 recalls that impacted 1.7 million vehicles.

A brake system that is checked and properly maintained offers clear and important benefits to drivers and passengers alike. Currently, there is no precise standard for how often brakes should be serviced. The best thing is to follow the maintenance regimen described in your vehicle's manual — each is different. By following that guide, everyone traveling can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience. 

Brakes' role in safe driving

Control is the most powerful thing you can have as a driver, and that's exactly what brakes offer — the power to slow down and stop. It goes beyond that, however, as modern cars are outfitted with a variety of brake aid technology to better encourage safe driving. Some of these include:

  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS), which helps drivers avoid skidding by preventing wheels from locking up during emergency braking.
  • Electronic stability control (ESC) assists in maintaining vehicle control during sudden or unexpected maneuvers.
  • Autonomous emergency braking (AEB) automatically uses the brakes to prevent or lessen the severity of the impact in cases where accidents are imminent.
  • Traction control system (TCS), which helps to avoid wheels sliding on slick surfaces during acceleration.
  • Brake assist (BA), also known as emergency brake assist (EBA), applies the maximum amount of force to the brakes during emergency braking.
  • Electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) improves braking performance by spreading the brake force to each wheel in accordance with the distribution of weight.

Signs you need brake maintenance

You use your brake each time you drive. This means it's almost always at work and will need maintenance over time — sometimes even before you expect to. Knowing when your brakes need servicing is essential, and it is especially important not to ignore these signs. To save money and be safe and comfortable when driving, look out for and act responsibly toward the following indicators:

  • Fluid leaks.
  • Odd smells.
  • Warning lights.
  • Jerking sensation.
  • Hard brake pedal.
  • Excessive vibration.
  • Spongy brake pedal.
  • Vehicle pulling to one side.
  • Strange or grinding noises.
  • Longer braking time/distance.
Mechanic repairing brake pads on vehicle.

Benefits of routine brake maintenance

Safety

As you can see throughout this blog, safety is one of the top benefits of getting your brakes constantly serviced. A properly working brake allows you to quickly and smoothly slow down and stop your vehicle, reducing the risk of accidents. Safety appears more beneficial when you consider passengers' lives as well: People may be driving with you, and there are always other drivers and pedestrians on the road. With this in mind, you are better able to prioritize safety.

Reduced maintenance cost

A vehicle is already expensive to maintain, so it's better to be safe than sorry. Regularly servicing your brakes can help you save money that you'd otherwise spend on costly repairs. It allows you to identify potential issues early and address them before they lead to extensive damage. Additionally, upkept brakes will reduce driving risks and the need to replace other vehicle parts — or pay for healthcare services for yourself or others.

Fewer brake replacements

The frequency of brake replacements can be decreased with appropriate brake maintenance, which can extend the operational lifespan of your brakes. Properly functioning brakes will age more gradually and evenly, necessitating fewer expensive brake pad and rotor replacements.

Better handling

A vehicle's handling and control are also improved by regularly serviced brakes. It increases your ability to brake more smoothly and effectively, improving how well you navigate corners and curves. As a result, you will drive more comfortably and enjoyably, and you will be able to easily drive through traffic.

Higher gas mileage

You can increase your fuel efficiency by doing routine brake maintenance. When your brakes are in good working order, you will be able to cruise and brake more smoothly, minimizing unneeded acceleration and deceleration. This is beneficial for the environment and can help you save money at the pump.

Greening Testing Laboratories is a fully certified brake testing lab that provides a variety of brake testing services worldwide. Contact Greening for a complimentary consultation.