Better Braking

Extending the life of your brake pads

Braking is vital to safe driving and only qualified mechanics using high quality parts should undertake repairs on your brakes.
But there is some things you can do on the road to minimise the amount of times you need brake repairs. Simple changes to your driving style can increase the life of your brake pads and if your in need of a change, brand choice and disc machining also help to extend the braking parts.

Firstly, as you approach a red light, as early as possible apply slight pressure to the brake pedal to slow your initial speed. The closer you get to the lights apply more pressure to the pedal and in a smooth and controlled manner stop the vehicle. Doing your approach this way keeps the brake temperatures low and allows for ventilation time. The hotter the brakes the faster they wear over time. Fast and sudden braking towards lights causes rapid increases in brake temperatures.

When you drive an automatic vehicle, drive with your right foot only, by resting your left foot on the block or step to keep it out of the way. If you tend to use both feet on the separate pedals, often without knowing it, you rest your left foot on the brake causing it to drag whilst driving. This also increases wear by unnecessary use and high temperatures.

As a good rule, avoid heavy braking where possible. And have your brakes regularly inspected by a professional. Avoid mechanics who use inferior brake brands, if they refuse to tell you the brand, question yourself if they should be working on your car.

 

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