Brake Maintenance: Keeping Your Vehicle and Loved Ones Safe

When it comes to your vehicle, few components are as crucial as the brakes. They’re not just there to slow you down; they’re a vital safety feature that can mean the difference between a safe journey and a dangerous accident. At Advanced Auto Clinic, we want to ensure you and your loved ones are safe on the road, so let’s dive into the world of brake maintenance.

The Importance of Brake Health

Your brakes are responsible for stopping your vehicle, but they do much more than that. They help you maintain control in emergency situations, reduce wear and tear on your tires, and keep you and your passengers safe. Neglecting brake maintenance can lead to costly repairs and, more importantly, jeopardize safety.

Did You Know? In the early days of automotive history, vehicles didn’t have the braking systems we’re familiar with today. Instead, they relied on a transmission brake. When drivers needed to slow down or stop, they would actually shift into low gear, which would create resistance and gradually reduce speed. It’s quite a contrast to the modern hydraulic brake systems we use now, but it’s a fascinating glimpse into how far automotive technology has come!

3 Common Brake Issues to Watch Out For:

  1. Squeaky Brakes: If you hear that telltale squeak or squeal when you press the brake pedal, it’s time to pay attention. This noise often indicates that your brake pads are wearing down. Worn brake pads can lead to decreased braking performance and potential damage to other brake components.
  2. Soft Brake Pedal: A mushy or soft brake pedal can be unnerving. It may mean there’s air or moisture in your brake lines, reducing the effectiveness of your brakes. A firm, responsive pedal is what you want for optimal safety.
  3. Vibrations and Shuddering: Feeling vibrations or shuddering when you brake? This could point to warped brake rotors. Warped rotors can reduce the efficiency of your braking system, making it harder to stop your vehicle when you need to.

Promoting Safety at Advanced Auto Clinic

At Advanced Auto Clinic, your safety is our top priority. We understand that maintaining your vehicle can be a daunting task, but our team is here to help. We offer a complimentary digital vehicle inspection to ensure every aspect of your vehicle, including the brakes, is in top condition.

Now is the Best Time to Put the Brakes On Breast Cancer!

As October is coming to a close, there’s still time to schedule your brake inspection and be a part of a great cause. We are running our “Putting the Brakes On Breast Cancer” promotion. When you come in for a brake job this month, you’ll receive FREE BRAKE PADS, and we’ll also donate $40 to Breathe Inc for every completed brake job!

By taking care of your vehicle’s brakes, you’re not only ensuring safety on the road, but you’re also contributing to an important cause. Together, let’s put the brakes on breast cancer!

Contact us at (262) 728-2944 or visit our appointment page to schedule your brake maintenance appointment and support this meaningful initiative.

Maintaining your vehicle’s brakes is not just about convenience; it’s about safety.

By recognizing common brake issues, addressing them promptly, and taking advantage of our “Putting the Brakes On Breast Cancer” promotion, you’re safeguarding your family and supporting a vital cause. At Advanced Auto Clinic, we’re here to support you in every aspect of brake maintenance. Don’t hesitate to reach out and schedule your brake inspection today. Your safety and your contribution to this cause are our business!

Brake Rotor Problems

Disc brakes are called disc brakes because of the big metal disc – or rotor – that spins with the wheel. The brake pads rub against the rotor to slow the vehicle. In technical terms, the motion energy of the moving vehicle is transferred into heat energy by the brakes. The job of the rotor is to absorb that heat and dissipate it into the atmosphere. To do that effectively, the rotor needs a certain amount of mass (measured by the thickness of the rotor) and a good surface to mate with the brake pads. Let’s talk about those two things.

First is the thickness. A new rotor is nice and thick. It can absorb a lot of heat and dissipate it effectively. Over time, the rotor will wear away slightly. If it wears away too much, there is not enough metal to take care of this heat transfer and the vehicle will not brake as well. In fact, each rotor is stamped with the minimum thickness the rotor must have. When the rotor reaches this “discard thickness”, it must be replaced.

Next in our consideration is the rotor surface. Now this is not just about the quality of the rotor’s surface, but also about how evenly the brake pad sweeps the rotor. Several things can affect the “swept area” of the rotor. A common problem is a scored – or scratched – rotor. When brake pads wear passed the point in which they should be replaced, metal parts of the brake can meet the rotors and grind grooves into the rotor. Imagine putting new brake pads on a scored rotor. The pad would only contact the ridges. This can significantly reduce the contact area and hurt braking performance. When a rotor has been scored, it may be able to be resurfaced on a brake lathe which smooths the surface. If the rotor is not thick enough to be resurfaced, it must be replaced.

Another common rotor problem is something called run out. This is when the rotor is slightly off axis (crooked) so the brake pads do not contact the rotor fully and evenly. Run out is measured in thousandths of an inch, so we are talking very small variations that can affect braking. Run out can be caused by a bit of dirt or rust between the brake rotor and the wheel hub, or even by slight variations in the mating surfaces of the brake and hub. Your technician can determine the cause and take the appropriate measures to restore proper brake pad contact.

When run out is not detected and corrected early, the rotor itself can wear unevenly leading to thickness variations. This condition is called parallelism because the inboard and outboard surfaces of the rotor are no longer parallel. The variations are small, measured in 10 thousandths of an inch, but they can significantly affect braking performance because of limited brake pad contact. This condition used to be referred to as “warped” rotors, but that term is inaccurate. If the rotor is still thick enough, the brake technician will correct the underlying run out problem and resurface the rotor to restore the contact surface. If the rotor is severely worn it must be replaced.

So, if you hear a grinding sound when you brake, get your brakes inspected as soon as you can to avoid possible rotor damage. With run out and parallelism, you may feel a pulsation in the pedal as you brake. If you feel a pulsation or if your pedal feels unusually soft or hard, bring your vehicle in for an inspection. A qualified brake technician using quality brake parts can get you safely running – and stopping –as soon as possible.

NAPA Know How: What is an ABS Sensor?

[ad_1]

The anti-lock braking system uses an ABS sensor or wheel sensor to monitor the wheel speed and send this information to the ABS computer. The ABS computer uses this information to prevent the brakes from locking during an emergency stop. If wheel speeds are not equal, the computer modulates the anti-lock feature until the speeds are equalized.

Where are these sensors located?

The ABS sensor is typically located in each wheel hub/rotor on a four channel ABS system. Some rear wheel drive applications have the sensor mounted in the rear differential.

Will a malfunctioning ABS sensor illuminate the check engine light or affect vehicle operation?

Yes, a failing sensor can illuminate the Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) or ABS warning lamp, and may cause failure of the anti-lock braking system to operate safely and properly.

What are the common causes of failure?

Typically these sensors will fail as a result of clogging from metallic debris, brake dust or dirt due to exposure to the harsh elements.

How to determine if these sensors are malfunctioning?

An ABS sensor can be visually inspected and the wire winding and sensor harness can be tested for opens, shorts and proper factory specified resistance with an ohmmeter.

Check out this video showing a typical ABS speed sensor replacement.

Check out all the brake system parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on what is an ABS sensor, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.

[ad_2]

NAPA Know How Blog Source link

NAPA Know How: Hot Savings From NAPA – 20% Off Sitewide

[ad_1]

Whether you can do it yourself or need it done for you, our NAPA social channels are for you. Follow us to get the latest KNOW HOW tips, see exclusive content from our NAPA Racing teams, check out the latest deals, and join the conversation with thousands of vehicle enthusiasts just like you.

From September 19th to 28th you can save 20% off online orders with coupon code: SOCIAL20.

START WITH THESE TOP SELLING CATEGORIES

Store participation and discount may vary. Exclusions apply. Offer valid 9/19-9/28. May not be combined with other offers. For Reserve Online, please call store to verify before pickup; additional actions and shipping charges may be required. We may cancel, modify, or deactivate this offer at any time and it is subject to change. We reserve the right to limit quantities and correct errors without notice. Reserve online orders need to be picked up at a participating NAPA AUTO PARTS prior to close of business on 9/28 to receive discount.

[ad_2]

NAPA Know How Blog Source link

NAPA Know How: 10 Overlooked Services That Can Extend The Life Of Your VehicleNAPA Know How Blog

[ad_1]

Servicing your vehicle is usually the last thing on your mind. The daily grind of life tends to take all of your focus, so unless it is actively causing an issue, your vehicle’s maintenance schedule is out of sight, out of mind. The problem is that ignoring that schedule will eventually cause a failure, costing you more time and money that necessary. As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

While oil changes and tire service are the most common maintenance items, we have compiled a list of the top 10 most overlooked services that you should keep in mind the next time you change the oil.

Power Steering Service

This is one of those overlooked services that rarely comes up in a situation before it is too late. Over time, the fluid in your power steering system picks up dirty and moisture, clogging the steering components, eventually causing a failure. Adding a power steering fluid additive will help maintain your system’s function, as will a periodic flushing of the system.

Wheel Alignment

How your wheels are aligned not only effects how the car handles, but also the life of your tires and suspension components. The alignment can fall out of adjustment from several factors, including component wear and potholes. Hitting a curb is a sure-fire way to jar the alignment as well. When the alignment is out, the car may pull to one side or the other, steer erratically, and may even dart across the lanes with just a small move of the wheel, making driving the car a perilous adventure. Not only have that, but even a slight mis-alignment leads to uneven and premature tire worn.  An annual wheel alignment ensures that your wheels are pointed the right way.

Differential Service

The differential is the component that transfers input from the transmission to the wheels. Some front wheel drive vehicles incorporate this into the transmission, but some have separate units, and all rear wheel drive vehicles have a rear differential. The rear axles an differential are housed in the rear end housing. Over time, the gear oil breaks down, reducing its viscosity and ability to properly lubricate the differential and wheel bearings. Additionally, the transfer case (for vehicles equipped with one) should be serviced at the same time as the differential. Most manufacturers have a set maintenance schedule for the differential and transfer case fluids.

Cabin Air Filter

When you turn on the AC does your car smell like a junior high gym locker? Can you still smell that dead skunk you drove by last week? Does the air coming out of your vents barely move? Well then maybe you need to check the cabin air filter. You may not even realize there is such a thing, but it helps filter out the bad smells, dirt and other debris from entering the interior of the car as your drive. One side of the filter is directly exposed to the outside environment, meaning they get wet. This moisture builds up, leading to mildew and mold spores that stink up the interior of the car. These are easily changed by the owner in most vehicles; you just need to look up the location in your vehicle’s manual and use a new filter from your local NAPA AutoParts store. Maybe your car won’t smell like roadkill anymore.

Timing Belt Replacement

Not all vehicles have timing belts. DO NOT confuse this with the accessory drive belt, which drives all of the engine accessories such as the AC compressor, alternator and water pump. The timing belt connects the crankshaft to the camshaft(s). Some engines have external belts, while others use internal belts. Regardless of how they are accessed, these are incredibly important to the function of the engine. If the engine is what is known as an “interference” engine, a slipping or broken timing belt can not only keep the engine from running, but can destroy the internals of the engine itself as the valves and piston can collide. Each manufacturer has specific maintenance schedules for the timing belt, make sure you check your owner’s manual. If your odometer is showing 50-60,000 miles, you need to get your timing belt checked. This is one of the overlooked services that can really hit your wallet hard if you ignore it.

Transmission Service

Leaving your transmission fluid unchecked for 100,000 miles it usually a recipe for disaster, so don’t let it go that long. Follow your manufacturer’s guidelines on transmission filter and fluid change, and be sure to check the fluid level at every oil change. Burnt or dark-colored fluid is a sign of an overheated transmission and continued use without servicing could lead to internal damage.

Air Conditioning Service

When the AC system goes down, it is usually during blistering heat or brutal cold. These situations can often be avoided with a few basic tips. The AC compressor contains oils that lubricate the seals and moving parts. Because the AC only sees action in the summer months, these oils tend to drain away from the places they are needed the most. Switching the AC on for 15 or so minutes once a month will keep those oils circulated, so that the seals and moving parts stay functional. Additionally, an annual service replenishes those oils and checks the system for leaks and ensures the proper levels of refrigerant.

Brake Service

Brake fluid is hygroscopic, that means it can absorb water out of the air. Even though the hydraulic system is sealed, the reservoir is not, meaning it can pull water straight out of the air and into the system. Over time, this corrodes the internal workings of the hydraulic system of your brakes. You can use a simple dip-strip (available at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS Store) to test your brake fluid. If it is a dirty dark brown color, it is old and should be flushed and replaced with new fluid.

Coolant System

Unless you drive a Corvair or VW Beetle, chances are your engine is water cooled. Because you are dealing with water, heat and several different types of metal, there are all kinds of potential maladies that can occur inside the cooling system. Contrary to popular belief, aluminum does in fact corrode, particularly when water and electricity are in close proximity, this is known as electrolysis. The cooling system is full of electrolysis, rust and degrading coolant which can lead to broken parts, cracked blocks and overheated engines. Check your coolant for the proper level of anti-freeze each winter, and flush the system with fresh fluid every 2 years.

Fuel System Cleaning

Carbon, sludge and dirt. These nasty bits of junk flow through your fuel system every single second the engine is running. As the build-up grows, the level of fuel that can pass is reduced, meaning the engine loses power, the fuel economy suffers and the drivability of the car is diminished. Restore the performance and economy of your engine with a fuel system cleaning. This can be performed in most cases with a twice-yearly fuel additive to the gas tank. Be sure to use quality gasoline to avoid dirty fuel.Cleaning your fuel system is as easy as adding some Royal Purple MaxClean to a tank of gas.

Addressing these overlooked services will only take a few hours combined, but they will add thousands of miles of life to your vehicle. A recent survey showed that 90% of all vehicles on the road have at least one basic maintenance item that has not been performed. Don’t let your car be the one on the side of the road when those issues come to fruition, visit your local NAPA AutoCare specialist and create a service schedule today.

Check out all the maintenance parts available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on overlooked services for your vehicle, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

[ad_2]

NAPA Know How Blog Source link

NAPA Know How: Hot Summer Savings From NAPA – 20% Off Sitewide

[ad_1]

Looking for a getaway weekend? Make sure your car is ready before you hit the road. Save 20% on NAPAOnline.com.

From July 14th to 21st you can save 20% off online orders with coupon code SAVE20.

Online orders only. Exclusions apply. Store participation may vary. Offer ends 7/21/19.

START WITH THESE TOP SELLING CATEGORIES

[ad_2]

NAPA Know How Blog Source link

NAPA Know How: Types of Brake Fluids ExplainedNAPA Know How Blog

[ad_1]

You can see your brakes behind your wheels and at first glance, it might not look like there are many types of brake fluids involved in the process. Take a closer look and you’ll find this is a hydraulic system that uses pressure to move brake fluid down to your brakes to stop your car.

If you run out of brake fluid, then the system simply will not work. No fluid means no pressure and that means no brakes. There’s still the emergency or parking brake as backup, but it’s not designed to stop your car the same way as the hydraulic system. Here’s what you need to know about the different types of brake fluids and when it may be time to change or refill those fluids.

Brake Fluid Basics

Not all types of brake fluids are the same. You’ll find a different type of fluid in an everyday sedan than you will in a performance car designed for the track. The key factor in determining which brake fluid to use is the fluid’s boiling point.

While you don’t often jam on the brakes during your morning commute or a typical day of driving, that’s exactly what you do on a track. Repeated hard braking heats up the brakes and it can cause the fluid to boil, resulting in a spongy brake feel and even complete brake failure.

That’s why it’s important to use the right brake fluid for your vehicle. The best way to be sure you have the right brake fluid in your car is to go with what’s in the owner’s manual. If you aren’t sure, don’t guess, because you should never mix different types of brake fluids.

Glycol or Silicone

The most common types of brake fluids are glycol-based and are labeled DOT 3 or DOT 4. The lower number indicates a lower boiling point, so these aren’t what you’ll find in a performance car, but perfectly acceptable for most driving conditions.

Silicone brake fluid is labeled DOT 5 and it has a higher boiling point. It’s also more expensive and is not recommended for every vehicle. It cannot be mixed with a glycol-based brake fluid. This makes it important to know what’s recommended for your vehicle before you start adding fresh fluid.

When to Refill

The brake fluid reservoir is in the engine compartment and it’s either white or opaque. There are markings on the outside that show when it’s full or low and you can see the fluid right through the container. If it’s low, then go ahead and add enough to meet the full line, but do not overfill the reservoir.

When to Replace

Brake fluid doesn’t last forever. If your old brake fluid looks dark, much like the color of used engine oil, then it’s probably time to have it changed. Even if it looks fine, it’s still a good idea to change your brake fluid at the manufacturer recommended intervals to ensure this crucial system works properly.

Brake fluid is a necessity if you want your vehicle to stop when you push the brakes. If you’re wondering what kind of brake fluid your car needs or when it needs to be changed, following your car’s owner’s manual is the best way to stay on top of your vehicle’s brake fluid.

Check out all the chemical products available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on the different types of brake fluids, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.

Photo courtesy of Nicole Wakelin.

[ad_2]

NAPA Know How Blog Source link

Get $50 with Qualifying Brake Parts Purchase!

Prepare for the Busy Driving Season Ahead and Get $50 with qualifying brake parts purchase!

As the temperatures heat up, so do our schedules. Come in early and have your brakes checked to make sure they’re in good condition and ready for the busy days ahead. Now through June 30, you can get a $50 Prepaid Visa® Card when you have the minimum amount of qualifying products installed at Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan.

Do your brakes sound or feel funny to you? Why don’t you schedule an appointment today and have them inspected by the professionals at Advanced Auto Clinic in Delavan.  Claim a $50 Prepaid Visa ® Card* from NAPA ® Brakes with $250 qualifying brake parts in a single purchase between April 1 –June 30, 2018. You can submit your rebate ONLINE ONLY at NAPARebates.com

*Offer valid April 1st – June 30th, 2018 

$50 Prepaid Visa Card when you have quality NAPA Brakes products installed!

Summer is here so now’s the perfect time to get your brakes checked to make sure you’re road trip ready. You only have until June 30th to receive up to a $50 Prepaid Visa® Card when you have quality NAPA Brakes products installed during the Stop At Your Destination rebate promotion!

No matter where you’re going or what you drive, trust the most dependable brakes available. #NAPA #Brakes!


Request an appointment today at aacdelavan.com/automotive-services/request-an-appointment/


 

BAD BRAKES? Receive a Visa Gift Card worth up to $50 back on NAPA Brakes!

BAD BRAKES?

Do you hear excessive noise, vibration / pulsation or having brake pedal issues? You may need a brake replacement!

Receive a Visa Gift Card worth up to $50 back on NAPA brakes, drums, rotors, shoes & pads at Advanced Auto Clinic!

Stop into Advanced Auto Clinic today in Delavan to learn more about our $50 VISA gift cards.

Offer valid May  – June 30th, 2016

 

NAPA_May_June_Poster

NAPA will donate $1 the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund for every Gift Card redeemed.

To learn more about the Intrepid Fallen Heroes Fund please visit www.FallenHeroesFund.org

logo