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 You Need The Service
Your vehicle often warns you before a complete system failure occurs. Recognizing these early warning signs of brake problems can save you money and prevent dangerous situations on the road. If you notice any changes in handling, it is time for a professional check-up.
- Strange Noises: High-pitched squeals or grinding sounds usually indicate worn brake pads contacting the rotors directly.
- Dashboard Alerts: An illuminated brake warning light signals an internal system fault or low fluid levels.
- Soft Pedal: A spongy feeling often points to air trapped in the lines or fluid leaks.
- Vibration Issues: Shaking sensations often signal warped rotors that require resurfacing or brake replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a brake inspection?
We generally recommend a brake inspection every 6 months or whenever you rotate your tires. However, driving frequently on steep Littleton hills may require more frequent checks. Regular evaluations allow us to catch wear early, ensuring your brakes remain reliable and preventing damage to more expensive components like rotors.
What causes my brakes to squeak?
Squeaking often comes from the wear indicator on your brake pads, signaling it is time for replacement. However, it can also result from dust buildup or glazed rotors. A professional inspection identifies the exact source, allowing us to perform the correct brake repair to silence the noise and restore safety.
Why is my brake warning light on?
A brake warning light can indicate several issues, from an engaged parking brake to low brake fluid or a failing sensor. In modern vehicles, it often points to an ABS fault. We use advanced diagnostic tools to read the codes and pinpoint the specific brake problems affecting your system.
Can I just add brake fluid if it is low?
While you can top it off, low fluid usually indicates worn pads or a leak in the brake lines. Simply adding fluid masks the symptom without fixing the underlying problem. We recommend a full system check to identify leaks and ensure your hydraulic system is sealed and safe.
How do I know if I need rotors replaced?
If you feel a pulsation or vibration in the pedal or steering wheel when stopping, your brake rotors are likely warped. We measure the thickness of the rotors during service. If they are too thin to be resurfaced safely, we recommend brake replacement with new rotors to ensure smooth stopping.
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.