BRAKE INSPECTION SERVICE WINNIPEG

Squealing brakes could be a symptom of several conditions including broken anti-rattle clips, worn rotors, worn pads, lack of pad insulation, or incorrect rotor surface cut or no surface cut.   New brakes will sometimes squeal if the metal fibers on the brake pad are too close to one another or are not seated properly.  While it can be frustrating, the squeaking will go away when the pads wear beyond this point.  Your mechanic will do an inspection and let you know the real cause of the sound.

There are several factors that affect how long the brakes in your vehicle should last,including the types of pads and rotors you have in your vehicle, and the way you drive as well.  Typically brake pads should be replaced every 75,000km, though some may not last that long.  Speak to one of our technicians about what you should be able to expect from your brake pads.

There are several clear hints that it may be time to change your brake pads.  If you are driving a newer model vehicle you will have a built-in sensor that will alert you when your brake pads are getting too thin. However, if you have an older vehicle that does not have a built-in sensor you may notice that you are hearing metallic grinding sounds, the brake wear tab is contacting the brake rotor causing a high pitched squeal,or your car may not be stopping as fast as you are used to.  If you recognize either of these signs, it’s time to get your brake pads replaced quickly.

If you are driving in the city where you are doing frequent stops and starts, you will eventually wear your brake pads out faster.  

Regular brake inspections are always a good idea, as is having the brake hardware serviced to ensure optimal braking force and wear. Many people schedule this inspection when they get the tires rotated on their vehicles (usually every 6 months).

There are four common types of brake pads:

• Ceramic – This brake pad is made of ceramic fibers, non-metallic filler materials and bonding agents.
• Low-Metallic NAO – Made of organic materials with 10-30% metal, these brake pads have very good heat transfer capabilities, though they create more brake dust and are a little noisier.
• Non-Asbestos Organic (NAO) – This brake pad is softer and less noisy than the low-metallic brake pads, but do create more dust. They are made with high-temperature resins and fibers, and contain filler materials.
• Semi-Metallic – This brake pad is the most commonly used brake pad in many vehicles. Made of steel wire, copper or graphite, and friction modifiers, it has excellent heat transfer capabilities and is long lasting.

Speak to your mechanic about which brake pad is best for your vehicle.