What Does A Brake Inspection Consist Of?
Brake inspections are an absolute must to ensure your vehicle’s health but more importantly yours. Don’t wait until you hear screeching sounds or ultimately, have an accident caused by your brakes malfunctioning. We recommend that you perform annual brake checks on your vehicle to prevent unfortunate accidents and potentially avoid having to replace the entire system.
Are you wondering what happens when you take your vehicle to a brake inspection? An expert technician will perform a full check on each one of your breaks components, which will depend on your brake types.
What Are The Different Types Of Brakes?
There are two brake types, Disc and Drum. The latter is most common on rear wheels and are actually considered to have a lower performance level.
The elements that constitute each type of brake varies slightly, which is why what is checked during an inspection will depend on your brake type.
How Does A Brake Inspection Work?
Once you have made the wise decision to take your vehicle to the depot, the key elements that will be checked are the brake pedal, fluids, lines, hoses, and the brake assemblies, it doesn’t matter if your brakes are Disc or Drum. What will actually vary are the brake assemblies. For example, Disc brakes, have three key components: rotors, pads and calipers. While Drum brakes have shoes instead of pads, and a wheel cylinder amongst other parts.
Brake Rotors
At the heart of the Disc braking system are the rotors, also known as brake discs. You will be able to identify them as the large flat circle in your tyres. Brake discs are also the most durable part of the system, as they are usually made of either steel or iron.
Brake Pads
Each braking system is composed of a pair of braking pads. Every time you press your brake pedal the pads are pushed by hydraulic fluid in the calipers against each side of the brake rotor. The friction caused is bound to wear off brake pads. Just think about the number of times you press the brake pedal every time you drive.
If your vehicle has specialised sensors a “brake pads worn” warning light on the dashboard will illuminate. However, this may not be the case for your vehicle, so ensure you check them regularly.
Brake Calipers
As mentioned before, the caliper’s function is to squeeze your brake pads against the surface of the rotor, creating friction and eventually slowing down the vehicle.
How Long Does A Brake Inspection Take?
This obviously varies depending on many factors, such as your vehicle type, but a full system check can take as little as half an hour. What can eventually make the process lengthier is if the technician identifies any components that require repairs or replacements. A brake pad replacement can take as little as 15 minutes but this will depend on the work needed, you can even expect to leave your car in the depot for a few days.
The most accurate way to find out a time estimate is talking to the expert who has inspected your vehicle.
Looking Where To Get A Free Brake Inspection?
At MQ Mobile Tyres we offer free brake checks for both disc and drum brake systems. If we identify any issues we can provide professional replacements and repairs. Get in touch with our experts today on 01234 327328 to book your free inspection.