Brakes: Everything You Need To Know

When it comes to car safety, one of the most critical components is the brakes. Your car's brakes play a crucial role in keeping you and your passengers safe by slowing down or stopping your vehicle when necessary. But, many drivers may not know much about their car's brake system and how it works.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about your car's brakes, including what brakes are, the different types of brakes, how to tell if you need new brakes, how long brakes last, whether you should change all brakes at the same time, how much brakes cost, and what happens if your brakes stop working while driving. By the end of this article, you will have a better understanding of your car's brakes and how to keep them in good working order, ensuring that you and your passengers stay safe on the road.

• What are Brakes?
• Different Types of Vehicle Brakes
• How Do I Know if I Need New Brakes?
• How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
• How Long Do Brake Discs Last?
• How Much Do Brakes Cost?
• What Happens If Your Brakes Stop Working When Driving?
• Signs You Need New Brakes
• Brake Inspections in Chippenham, Wiltshire.

Brakes are mechanical or hydraulic systems designed to slow down or stop a vehicle's motion. The most common type of brake found in cars is the disc brake, which consists of a brake disc, caliper, and brake pads. When you press the brake pedal, the caliper squeezes the brake pads against the brake disc, creating friction that slows down the car's wheels.

There are two main types of brakes: disc brakes and drum brakes. Disc brakes are more common in modern cars, while drum brakes are typically found in older vehicles or on the rear wheels of some cars. Disc brakes are generally more efficient and provide better stopping power than drum brakes.

Another type of brake that is gaining popularity in hybrid and electric cars is regenerative brakes. These brakes use the car's electric motor to slow down the vehicle, converting the kinetic energy into electrical energy to charge the battery.

Several signs indicate that you need new brakes. If you notice any of the following, it is time to get your brakes checked:

• Squeaking, squealing, or grinding noises when you apply the brakes
• A spongy or soft brake pedal that goes all the way to the floor
• Vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel when you brake
• The brake warning light on your dashboard comes on
• Longer stopping distances than usual

The lifespan of brakes depends on various factors, such as driving conditions, driving style, and the type of brake pads used. On average, brake pads can last anywhere between 30,000 to 70,000 miles.

However, some high-performance brake pads may last only 15,000 miles, while others can last up to 100,000 miles.

Brake discs can last even longer, up to 70,000 miles or more.

While it is not necessary to change all brakes at the same time, it is recommended. When you change the brake pads on one wheel, the other wheels may have a different level of wear. If you do not change the other brake pads, it may result in uneven braking, which can affect the car's stability and safety. It is best to change all brakes at the same time to ensure consistent performance.

The cost of brakes varies depending on the type of brake pads and discs you choose, as well as the make and model of your car.

On average, a complete brake job, including new brake pads and discs, can cost between £150 to £500 per axle. However, some high-performance brakes can cost up to £2,000 or more for a full set.

Our team would be happy to provide an accurate quote for your car or van's brakes. Click the button below to send us your vehicle details.

If your brakes fail while driving, it is essential to stay calm and act quickly.

• Try the brakes again
• Slowly use the emergency brake/handbrake to try and slow the vehicle down
• Downshift into a lower gear
• Try to exit the road as safely as possible until the vehicle comes to a stop on its own
• Do not turn off the vehicle until you have come to a complete stop

If your brakes have failed, you should have it recovered to be inspected by a qualified technician. Do not attempt to drive your car.

Here are the most common signs that indicate you need new brakes:

1. Squeaking, Squealing, or Grinding Noises: If you hear a high-pitched squeaking or squealing noise when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign that your brake pads are worn down. A grinding noise usually means that your brake pads are completely worn out, and the metal backing plate is rubbing against the brake disc. If you hear any of these noises, it is essential to get your brakes checked immediately.

2. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal: If you have to press the brake pedal all the way to the floor to stop your car, or if the brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it could be a sign of a brake fluid leak or air in the brake lines. In either case, it is crucial to get your brakes checked by a professional mechanic.

3. Vibration or Shaking When Braking: If you feel vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel or brake pedal when you apply the brakes, it could be a sign of warped brake rotors. Warped brake discs can cause uneven braking, which can affect your car's stability and safety.

4. Longer Stopping Distances: If your car takes longer to stop than usual, it could be a sign that your brake pads are worn down, or there is a problem with your brake system. This can be dangerous, especially in an emergency situation, so it is important to get your brakes checked immediately.

5. Dashboard Warning Light: Most modern cars have a dashboard warning light that comes on when there is a problem with the brake system. If the brake warning light comes on, it could indicate a problem with the brake fluid level or a malfunction in the brake system. You should get your brakes checked as soon as possible if the warning light comes on.

In conclusion, the brake system is one of the most critical components of your car's safety, and it is essential to keep it in good working condition. Understanding the different types of brakes, knowing when you need new brakes, and how to identify signs of brake problems can help prevent accidents and keep you safe on the road.

Regular brake maintenance and inspection by a professional mechanic can help ensure that your brakes are working correctly and provide peace of mind while driving. Don't take your brakes for granted, and make sure to keep them in good condition to protect yourself, your passengers, and other drivers on the road.

At Chippenham Motor Company, we supply and fit a wide range of brake pads and discs for every make and model of vehicle.

If you would like you brakes inspected or replaced, you can visit either our Bumpers Farm dealership or MRG on Bath Road, Chippenham.

Our highly qualified technicians will be happy to assess your brake system and recommended any changes or upgrades. our knowledgeable and professional aftersales team can also take you through our wide brake pads and discs stock selection including many leading vehicle parts brands.