What to Expect With a Brake Service
1. Schedule Your Appointment
Whether scheduling online or over the phone be sure and let us know what you're experiencing so we can provide fast and accurate service advice.
2. Diagnostics and Inspections
Drop off your vehicle and the shop will get to work with inspections and diagnostics using the same equipment as the manufacturers to determine issues and next steps.
3. Digital Vehicle Inspection Report and Estimate
Following the diagnosis we will text you a digital vehicle inspection report, containing pictures and videos of our findings and recommendations.
4. Review and Approval
A service advisor will reach out to walk you through the findings and recommendations to determine how you would like to proceed, or you can approve work directly in your DVI.
5. Work Performed or Scheduled
Most work can be completed immediately, or scheduled based on parts and customer availability.
Did You Know: It takes up to three football fields to safely brake in the rain?
Signs of Failing Brakes
Recognizing the signs of failing brakes is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
If you notice any of the following symptoms, it's imperative to schedule a brake service as soon as possible:
- Squealing or Grinding Noises: High-pitched squealing or grinding sounds when applying the brakes are clear indicators that the brake pads may be worn down and in need of replacement.
- Vibrations or Shaking: If you feel a pulsing or shaking sensation when braking, it may be a sign of warped brake rotors, which can make it harder for your vehicle to stop.
- Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal: A brake pedal that feels soft or spongy underfoot may indicate air or moisture in the brake lines, or a potential brake fluid leak.
- Pulling to One Side: If your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, it may suggest uneven brake pad wear or a problem with the brake calipers.
- Dashboard Warning Light: Modern vehicles are equipped with brake warning lights that illuminate when there is a potential issue with the braking system. If this light comes on, it's essential to have it inspected promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a typical brake pad replacement take?
Most brake pad replacement services can be completed in just a few hours. We prioritize efficiency to get you back to your routine quickly and offer a complimentary shuttle service to nearby Zionsville or local shopping areas if you prefer not to wait at the shop.
Do you offer visual brake inspections during other services?
Yes, we provide visual brake inspections as part of our complimentary courtesy check during every visit, including oil changes. This proactive approach helps us catch thinning brake pads or leaking brake hoses and lines before they lead to more expensive repairs or safety issues.
Why is my brake fluid turning dark?
Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture and collects microscopic debris from the rubber seals in your braking system. In our humid Indiana climate, this happens more quickly, which can lower the fluid's boiling point and lead to a soft pedal. A professional fluid exchange is recommended to maintain safety.
What is the difference between resurfacing and replacing rotors?
If your brake rotors have enough thickness and only minor surface irregularities, they may be resurfaced. However, if they are too thin or have deep scoring, a full brake replacement is necessary to ensure the metal can dissipate heat properly and provide a safe surface for the new pads.
Are your technicians familiar with European and luxury vehicles?
Our ASE-certified technicians at the Whitestown automotive center are trained to work on a wide variety of makes and models. We use specialized equipment to handle the complex braking systems found on domestic, Asian, and European vehicles, ensuring factory-level precision for every guest.
Get a clear, honest assessment of your vehicle’s health from a team that treats you like a neighbor.
Book your visual brake inspection online or call (317) 434-3658.
Your Local Christian Brothers Amenities
FAQs
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Q. "Why is my ABS light on?"There are several reasons your vehicles anti-lock brake system light might be on. The four common reasons that typically cause this light to turn on include a malfunctioning ABS module, low levels in the fluid reservoir, broken wheel speed sensors, or the system is turned off. Learn more here.
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Q. "How long will my brake pads last?"There is no perfect answer to this. Brake pads can last up to 70,000 miles while others will need to be replaced as early as 25,000 miles. The type of vehicle you drive, how you use your vehicle and your driving style are all factors to consider. If you are interested in learning more about brake pad wear and how to extend its lifespan click here.
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Q. "When do I need to change my brake fluid?"Along with the type of brake fluid, your car’s owner manual will indicate how often you need your brake fluid flushed and replaced. In general, brake fluids flushes are recommended every 30,000 miles or two years. Click here to learn more.
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Q. "Do you offer a warranty?"As part of our Nice difference.® commitment to providing our customers the best auto service experience possible, we also offer a3-year/36,000-mile warranty on all the work that we do. We offer this warranty at every Christian Brothers Automotive nationwide, and it will be honored at any location, regardless of which branch did the initial work.
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Q. "What is a Digital Vehicle Inspection?"With a complimentary Digital Vehicle Inspection (DVI) on every visit, you’ll see firsthand photos of your vehicle from under the hood. We’ll let you know if everything is functioning properly or if there are any areas of concern. You can even approve or deny our service recommendations, all straight from your smartphone, or you can, of course, give us a call and we’ll explain our findings in further detail.
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Q. "Can you provide service under my extended warranty?"Yes. At Christian Brothers Automotive, we work with all major extended warranty providers to make needed repairs for our customers. If you have an extended warranty, you can discuss your carrier with our team when scheduling an appointment and confirm that the work will be covered. You can find a partial list of the extended warranty companies we work with here.
Have more Questions?
Our friendly auto service experts have the answers.
Call your local Christian Brothers Automotive car shop today
Hear What Our Customers Had to Say About Us
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"I liked the customer service and going above and beyond to make sure I was comfortable while waiting in the store for my vehicle work to be done, specifically being offered a nice hot coffee with creamer."
- J.L.