At Redwood General we ask you why you think certain services are needed.
When you come in, we may ask questions on why you need a certain service. We
do this to help determine what type of service your vehicle will really needs.
For example: your car's steering wheel vibrates when you apply the brakes.
Many times the problem is not wheel balance or wheel alignment, but you may
need to have your brakes checked.
Brake rotors must be smooth, clean and flat to provide optimum braking. If
the finish is too rough, scarred, warped or glazed, the pads are going to
chatter and vibrate every time they make contact with the brake rotor. And if
the brake rotor is worn too thin (especially un-vented rotors), the reduced
mass of the metal will be less able to dampen the normal vibration of the
braking as well as dissipate heat. So if the rotors are not in A-1 condition,
they should be resurfaced. Most cars have rotors on the front wheels with rear
brake drums. More and more cars are being manufactured with four-wheel disks
as standard or optional equipment. Once the rotors are resurfaced, steering
wheel vibration will be eliminated when the brakes are applied.
When you come to Redwood General we make sure your brake fluid system is
full. If not full, this can cause a spongy pedal or make the pedal feel low.
At every service, whether it is a simple tire rotation, oil change or flat
repair, we check you brakes. Some brake pads and shoes are equipped with
spring line clips that begin to rub on the rotor disc or drum when the pad or
shoe nears the end of it s life. If you hear a squeaking or scratching noise
coming from a wheel when you step on the brakes have one of our ASE Certified
Technicians check it out, before the pad or shoe gouges a grove in the disc or
drum, causing damage and causing much higher repair costs. A few simple habits
can enhance the life of your brakes:
| Don't "ride the brakes". A slight and constant pressure
causes premature wear. |
| Don't use your left foot to brake a car with an automatic
transmission. You're more likely to ride the brakes. |
| Consider flushing the hydraulic system to eliminate sediment and
residue every one to two years. |
Updated
2006/07/10
