Need a Brake Replacement? Diagnosing a Bad Caliper!

If you find you are sliding to a stop, or your brakes are making strange noises when you step on the pedal, it may be time for a brake replacement.  There are several issues that could lead to a brake replacement, such as worn out pads or drums, a failing master cylinder, brake hose, or a bad caliper. 

 Our ASE Certified technicians are extremely concerned about the quality and efficiency of your vehicle’s brakes.  Why you may ask?  The difference of just an inch or two is the difference between stopping in time or getting in a crash.  Quality brake repair can save your life or at the very least protect your vehicle’s exterior.  Thankfully, your car’s brakes will tell you when you need a brake service if you just knew what to look for.  Now you can!

it’s time to visit a brake repair expert for a brake inspection.  Rum River Brake Service specialists offer the latest diagnostic equipment, expert skills and knowledge for your vehicle.

• Is your brake pedal not as high as normal or constantly seem in a ‘down’ position?
• Does your steering wheel vibrate on application of brakes? (Your brake rotors might need machining)
• Is your brake pedal hard to push? (Possible brake shoes or brake pad replacement required)
• Is the brake pedal soft when you press on it? (Inspection of your brakes hydraulic system)

How can your auto mechanic tell if the caliper is bad?  One of the first places to look to diagnose brake problems is the pad wear.  If the brakes on one side of the vehicle are worn to the metal and the other side still has about 90% of its friction material left, you more than likely have a bad caliper.  This is caused by issues such as:

• The calipers don’t always release, causing the brake pads to wear prematurely.
• The piston may freeze and the brakes won’t apply (which decreases the wear as the brakes aren’t applied).
• The caliper slide pins may stick. Check these out first before totaling replacing the caliper. They may simply need the proper lubricant.
• If the caliper piston won’t compress with the bleeder valve open, the caliper more than likely needs to be replaced.

Noteworthy Tip: Make sure your brakes are fully operational so that you are driving–or stopping–as the case may be, as safe as possible.  Have them inspected by a brake replacement specialist.

Need professional advice about brakes? Contact our ASE Certified Technicians at Rum River Automotive by calling (763) 389-3811, or go on-line at http://ift.tt/28M1bh1 for more information about brake replacement.  Since 1997, our auto shop has served vehicle owners in Princeton, MN and in the surrounding areas of Milaca and Zimmerman, MN.

Source by Rum River