A Motorist’s Guide To Brake Inspection & Service
- February 28, 2025
- Posted by: Wentworth
- Category: Brakes
As a responsible motorist, you know keeping your vehicle safe and reliable requires active participation. This helpful guide offers information designed to equip you with the data needed to handle brake-related issues. Identifying issues with brake pads, brake fluid, and a spongy brake pedal can assist you with scheduling a brake inspection before jeopardizing your safety.
Common Brake Issues & Symptoms
The braking system is one of your vehicle’s most important safety systems. We all want our brakes to work when we need them to. Be vigilant while driving and try to notice differences in braking behaviors. Does the brake pedal go down farther before engaging the brakes? Does it take longer for your car to stop completely? Are your brakes making noises while braking? Below are some common brake issues and symptoms that require a brake inspection or service appointment:
- Dashboard Warning Lights (Brakes or ABS)
- Delayed Stopping
- Leaking Brake Fluid
- Noisy Braking
- Spongy Brake Pedal
- Vehicle Pulls To Side While Braking
- Vibrations While Braking
Brake Inspection Checklist
Scheduling a service appointment when things don’t feel right with your car can help prevent breakdowns. Routine and preventative maintenance can also reduce repair costs by minimizing damage to other components. Communicate your concerns with the service technician so they can target those areas and accurately diagnose the issues. Most auto service centers follow a brake inspection checklist or guide to help them cover all the bases.
Visual Inspection
During a brake inspection, the technician will visually inspect the braking system and look for any signs of wear, part damage, or fluid leaks. Some of the braking components include:
- brake pads or shoes
- rotors or drums
- master cylinder
- brake lines, hoses, connections
- brake pedal
- calipers, valves, sensors
- brake lights
- ABS components
- wheel cylinders
- undercarriage
Replace Components
After the visual inspection, the service tech physically checks consumable braking components. Consumable parts wear out and require replacement. They carefully collect detailed measurements, wear patterns, and other factors at this time. After reviewing the data, the technician will recommend any necessary repairs and replacements.
Diagnostic Inspection
A diagnostic inspection involves using sophisticated equipment to ‘talk’ to your vehicle’s onboard computer system. At this time, any error codes are read and addressed. Dashboard warning lights are part of the diagnostic inspection. Once the service technician resolves the issue, the warning light is reset and cleared from the dashboard.
Brake Fluid Analysis
Brake fluid can last a long time with proper care; however, it can require replacing under certain conditions. Analyzing your vehicle’s brake fluid helps determine its lifespan by detecting contaminants, pH levels, and other factors. If the fluid level in the braking system is low, the technician will search for the cause. It’s important to note that brake fluid does not get ‘used up’ under normal operation. Once the tech seals the system, they will add fresh brake fluid until the level is sufficient.
Brake Maintenance Intervals
Some auto manufacturers suggest brake service intervals in their routine maintenance schedule, often found in your owner’s manual. Other auto manufacturers suggest scheduling brake inspections at designated time/mileage intervals: every 4-6 months or 5,000-7,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Aside from routine maintenance, your braking system may require additional inspections or repairs if they do not operate correctly.
For example, schedule a service if you experience:
- Squealing, grinding, or other noises
- Changes in the brake pedal
- Increased stopping distance
Brake Inspection & Service in San Diego, CA
Your safety while driving depends on the overall condition of your vehicle. That’s why Wentworth Automotive makes it our #1 priority to provide exceptional service. We only hire ASE-certified & Master mechanics and always use high-quality replacement parts in brake repairs. If you have questions about your spongy brake pedal, noisy brake pads, or leaking brake fluid, we are happy to help.
Schedule A Brake Inspection Service
To schedule a brake inspection or repair service, please contact us at (858) 541-1044 or book an online appointment today.
