Sioux Falls Brake Repair
If you are looking for the best brake repair in Sioux Falls, look no further than J&M Auto Service. Out of control vehicles speeding dangerously through traffic unable to stop is only exciting in the movies and on TV. You cannot afford to lose your brakes while you’re behind the wheel. This crucial safety system is the most important one your car, truck, or utility vehicle has, which is why J&M Auto Service services, repairs, and replaces all brake system types, including ABS.
Brake System 101
Brake systems come in two types: disc and drum. Disc brakes use calipers to squeeze brake pads against brake rotors. This causes friction to create kinetic energy to slow down and stop a vehicle. Drum brakes push pistons against brake shoes. The shoes then press against the brake drums to slow down and stop the wheels. Anti-lock Brake Systems, or ABS, prevent cars from hydroplaning when they stop suddenly. They do this by applying and releasing pressure on the brakes; basically pumping them very fast.
Your vehicle’s brake system also has a master cylinder, which pushes brake fluid through the brake lines to the calipers or pistons. It is this fluid pressure that causes the calipers or pistons to press against the pads or shoes. Brake fluid is clear, amber, or light brown when it’s new. It is also very slick or oily to the touch. As brake fluid ages, it turns dark brown or black. Your vehicle cannot stop without brake fluid, so it’s important to have the fluid flushed and replaced every 20,000 miles or once a year on average.
Factory-Scheduled Brake Service
Your owner’s manual will list the recommended factory-scheduled maintenance for your vehicle’s brake system. This preventative maintenance extends the life of the brake system by replacing worn parts before they damage other parts. Generally, it’s a good idea to have the
- Brakes inspected every 15,000 miles
- Brake fluid changed every 30,000 miles
- Brake pads changed every 50,000 miles
- Brake shoes changed every 50,000 miles
These are general numbers, however. For example, your brake pads should be replaced once they’ve worn down to a thickness of 0.1 inches, which could happen before 50,000 miles. Regular brake inspections help us find problem parts so we can replace them right away.
Brake Repair Sioux Falls
Even with preventative maintenance, your vehicle’s brake system might need repairing. Common problems include leaks in the brake lines and master cylinder, stuck brake calipers, overheating brakes, and warped rotors on disc brakes. Electrical system issues can also unintentionally disable the ABS, causing it to malfunction or fail. Have the brake system inspected at the first sign of trouble.
You do not need to look any further for brake repair in Sioux Falls and Tea, SD. J&M Auto Service is a full-service auto shop and we’d be happy to maintain and repair your vehicle’s brake system.