Posted on 2/8/2012
It's never a good idea to overlook your brake system. After all, when it comes to your safety, nothing is more important than your brakes. You change your brake pads when they've worn down, right? These parts are noticeable when they've outlived their useful life. But all too often, other basic brake maintenance is overlooked. The most common aspect of your brakes that is overlooked is the brake fluid. Studies have shown that brake fluid becomes contaminated, on average, every two years. Why is this important? Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid, and its job is to transmit force and apply the brakes. As your brake fluid becomes contaminated with moisture, this once non-compressible fluid now does compress, which results in having to apply more pressure on the brakes. In an emergency situation, this means it will take longer than expected to stop. The more contaminated the brake fluid is, the longer it will take for your vehicle to stop. Newer vehicles are equipped with anti-lock brak ... read more
Posted on 9/14/2011
Have you ever been driving your car, turned a corner and heard a horrible squealing sound? You start to freak out and get upset because you know you are going to have to bring your car into the shop. Well, here are a few diagnoses for some of the sounds you might hear from your car.A high-pitched, piercing metallic screech is usually a sign that brake maintenance is required. Brake pads have wear indicators that alert the driver to problems. If you suspect you need brake repair in Corpus Christi, be sure to visit an ASE certified technician .A high-pitched metallic tapping sound is often related to engine speed. First check your vehicle’s manual for octane rating, because it could be caused by fuel with a lower octane rating than recommended. Engine ignition timing may be the problem if it doesn’t stop.Loose or worn power steering, fan or air conditioning belts will cause a shrill, sharp squeal.A clicking sound can be related to a loose wheel cover or fan blade.A low-pitched rhythmic r ... read more
Posted on 5/12/2011
The most important system in the automobile, for safety, is the brake system. You change your brake pads when they have outlived their useful life, right? How about brake fluid? Many people overlook that component of the brake system, even though it is an essential part.It has been shown that brake fluid becomes contaminated, on average, every two years. This is important because with it being a hydraulic fluid, its job is to transmit force and apply the brakes. As it becomes contaminated with moisture, the once non-compressible fluid now does compress, causing you to press harder on the brakes for the same amount of stopping power. This means that in a panic stop scenario, the more contaminated the fluid becomes, the longer it will take for you to be able to stop your vehicle.In modern vehicles with Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), there is even more reason to flush the brake fluid regularly. Dirty brake fluid can damage the sophisticated and expensive ABS control equipment.To avoid reduced br ... read more