BRAKES

Summer — and lot of extra driving — are just around the corner. It just makes sense to have your vehicle’s brakes checked today.

Signs You Need New Brakes:

Grinding or growling: This loud metallic sound means that you have worn down the pads completely, most likely beyond replacement. The grinding or growling noise is caused by the two pieces of metal (the disc and the caliper) rubbing together. This can “score,” or scratch your rotors, creating an uneven surface. If this happens, do not be surprised if your mechanic tells you that the rotors need to be “turned” (a process that evens out the rotor surface), or even replaced.

Squealing: The most obvious indicator that your vehicle’s brakes need attention is an incredibly high pitched squeal when you come to a stop.

Car is pulling: It often indicates that a driver needs new brake pads. If the car pulls to one side or another, without turning the steering wheel when a driver applies the brakes, this often indicates that the current brake pads are wearing unevenly and need replaced with new brake pads. If a car is simply pulling while a driver is accelerating, or driving at a steady speed, without applying the brakes, this pulling usually indicates a different repair issue.

Pulsating: A vibration or pulsating brake pedal is often a symptom of warped rotors (but can also indicate that your vehicle is out of alignment). The vibration can feel similar to the feedback in the brake pedal during a panic stop in a vehicle equipped with anti-lock brakes.

You should make sure you are keeping up with the maintenance of your vehicle. Even if there are no warning signs, you want to get your brakes checked to ensure that everything is in order. Not to mention the increased cost of repairs if you wait until problems occur. Better to prevent issues altogether.

If you do need new brakes, you can save big with the great “Brake Out Savings” Rebates on NAPA Brakes now at Advanced Auto Clinic. For your qualifying NAPA Brakes  purchase now through June 30, you’ll get up to a $50 Rebate Visa® Card, by mail.

Reliable stopping power. Plus, BIG Savings.