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 May Need Brake Service
Your vehicle's brakes are vital to your safety, and any issues should be addressed promptly to avoid serious problems.
Here are some warning signs that your brakes may need attention:
- Unusual Noises: Squeaking, squealing, or grinding noises when you apply the brakes are often signs of worn brake pads or damaged rotors.
- Vibrations or Pulsations: Feeling vibrations or pulsations through the brake pedal or steering wheel may indicate uneven rotor wear, which can affect your vehicle's braking performance and safety.
- Burning Smell: A burning odor, particularly after heavy braking, could mean your brakes are overheating, potentially caused by aggressive driving, frequent stops, or a malfunction in the braking system.
- Uneven Braking: If your car pulls to one side when braking, it could be due to uneven brake pad wear or problems with the brake calipers, which can compromise your vehicle's stability.
- Longer Stopping Distances: If it takes longer than usual to come to a stop, your brake pads may be worn, or there could be an issue with the brake fluid, affecting braking efficiency and safety.
- Fluid Leaks Around Wheels: Visible brake fluid leaking near the wheels or brake master cylinder is a serious concern. Brake fluid is essential for proper brake function, and any leaks should be addressed immediately.
Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more severe issues, unsafe driving conditions, and costly repairs. Catching potential problems early helps maintain your vehicle's reliability and keeps your braking system in optimal working condition.
To ensure your vehicle's brakes are always ready to perform when needed, keep an eye on brake warning light indicators and schedule regular brake inspections. Early detection of brake issues makes driving safer and prevents unexpected breakdowns.
Complete Brake Care in Brandon, FL
Our team of skilled mechanics at Christian Brothers Automotive Valrico is here to tackle any brake problem your car might have. Regular brake maintenance not only extends the life of your vehicle's braking system but also enhances safety, driving efficiency, and peace of mind. We adopt an encompassing approach to care for brakes, addressing components comprehensively.
We provide a full range of brake services to keep you safe on the Brandon roads, including:
- Brake Inspection and Diagnosis: We'll thoroughly inspect your brakes to identify any issues and recommend the most suitable repairs to get you back to safe driving. Identifying the root cause of brake issues is crucial to prevent further complications.
- Brake Pad Replacement Brandon: Worn brake pads compromise your stopping power. We use high-quality pads built to last and deliver optimal performance. Replacing brake pads as part of regular maintenance ensures smoother rides and effective braking power.
- Brake Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement: Depending on the condition of your rotors, we'll either resurface them for a smooth braking experience or recommend brake replacement in Brandon. Addressing rotor issues promptly can prevent further damage to the braking assembly and maintain safety.
- Brake Fluid Flush and Replacement: Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing its effectiveness. We'll perform a complete flush and replace it with fresh fluid to ensure your brakes function properly. Fresh brake fluid helps maintain adequate hydraulic pressure and prevents corrosion.
- Brake Caliper Repair or Replacement: Faulty calipers can lead to braking problems. We'll diagnose the issue and either repair or replace your calipers as needed. Proper caliper function is crucial for maintaining balanced braking across all wheels.
- Brake Line Repair and Replacement: Leaking or damaged brake lines pose a serious safety risk. We'll fix or replace them to keep your brakes in top condition. Ensuring the integrity of brake lines aids in consistent braking power and safety.
- ABS System Diagnostics and Repair: Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) are crucial for safe stopping, especially on wet or slippery roads. We have the capability to diagnose and repair any ABS problems your car might have. A well-functioning ABS prevents wheel lock-up and maintains vehicle stability during braking.
Why Choose Us?
At Christian Brothers Automotive Valrico, we treat your vehicle with the same care and attention as you would.
Here's what sets us apart:
- Transparency & Education: We believe in clear, straightforward communication. Our team explains each brake service step in simple terms, ensuring you understand what's being done and why it's essential for your safety.
- On-Site Owner/Operators: Our hands-on owners are always available to ensure the highest level of service, providing a personal touch for every brake repair.
- Welcoming Environment: Enjoy a stress-free experience with a comfortable, family-friendly waiting area and convenient courtesy shuttle services, keeping you on the move while we take care of your vehicle.
- Exceptional Warranty: We offer an industry-leading warranty on all brake services, giving you peace of mind that your brake system is covered long after the service is completed.
- Commitment to Your Safety: Your safety is our top priority. We work efficiently without compromising on quality, ensuring your brakes are in top condition and you are fully satisfied with our service.
At Christian Brothers Automotive Valrico, we know your time is valuable. That's why we offer convenient scheduling and strive to complete brake services quickly, without sacrificing quality.
For professional brake checks, repair, maintenance, and replacement services in Valrico, contact us at (813) 761-3579 or online today!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Should I Have My Brakes Inspected?
Regular brake inspections are crucial for maintaining optimal performance and safety. We generally recommend having your brakes checked every 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first. However, if you're frequently driving through Brandon's rainy seasons or encounter heavy traffic often, more frequent inspections might be beneficial.
Checking for any immediate issues such as noise, vibration, or reduced stopping power during these inspections helps address potential problems before they escalate, ensuring peace of mind and reliable driving.
What Are the Common Causes of Brake Noise?
Brake noise can arise from various sources; commonly, it's due to worn-out brake pads. Other causes include dust and debris trapped between the pad and rotor, or the use of low-quality pad materials. Moisture, prevalent in Brandon’s humid climate, can also lead to rust, exacerbating noise issues.
Ensuring regular maintenance and using high-quality replacement parts can minimize these auditory annoyances. Addressing brake noise at its first occurrence helps avoid further damage and ensures your braking system remains in top condition.
How Long Do Brake Pads Typically Last in Brandon?
Brake pads typically last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles, though this range can vary widely based on driving habits and conditions. In Brandon, where traffic conditions and humid weather can affect wear, monitoring brake pad thickness is essential.
Regular checks allow us to anticipate replacement before pads wear too thin, safeguarding both your rotors and your safety on the road. By considering local driving environments, drivers can better plan maintenance schedules suited to their vehicle’s specific needs.
What Should I Do If My Brake Pedal Feels Spongy?
A spongy brake pedal can indicate several issues, including air in the hydraulic system, fluid leaks, or even worn brake components. Addressing this sensation quickly is vital, as it compromises stopping ability and overall vehicular safety.
Our certified technicians at Christian Brothers Automotive Valrico will inspect your brake system thoroughly, identify the root cause, and provide solutions to restore firm pedal feel and reliable braking performance. Regular checks can prevent the onset of such symptoms, ensuring your brake system functions optimally under varied conditions.
Why Does My Car Pull to One Side When Braking?
If your car pulls to one side while braking, it might signal uneven wear on brake pads or issues with the calipers. Other culprits could include misaligned wheels or abnormal tire pressure. Addressing these issues is imperative for safety and maintaining control, especially during emergency stops.
By conducting a comprehensive diagnostic, we ensure your brake system is balanced and your vehicle tracks straight and true. It’s yet another reason why maintaining your brakes through professional service is essential in preventing more costly repairs in the future.
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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"Paul C, is the man, when ever i have a service question about my vehicle i know who to call. He explains everything to me to help my understand my issue. he goes above and beyond helping me. Hard to find these days. Paul will always be my guy when i have q"
- Matt N