Why Drivers Should Prioritize Regular Brake Inspections

A car’s engine (justifiably) gets most of the attention, but brakes are arguably the second-most important system in any vehicle. Unfortunately, many drivers overlook routine brake maintenance until the unignorable screeching and squealing forces them to visit the shop.

As long as your vehicle is getting you from point A to point B, regular inspections can feel unnecessary. This article reveals why brake maintenance is crucial for ensuring a safe, comfortable, and affordable driving experience.  

Safety First

All drivers are responsible for keeping themselves and others safe out on the road. If brakes degrade to the point where they’re no longer reliably functional, you’re putting everyone around you at risk, not to mention friends and family that may be in your vehicle. 

Some drivers may think getting every last mile out of their brakes is a money-saving measure, but in this case, the consequences of damaged brakes are so severe that it’s simply not worth it. The difference between stopping safely and causing a life-changing accident could be a trip to the expert and certified technicians at a Dobbs location near you.

Vehicle Performance

Worn-down brakes can cause problems beyond helping your vehicle stop safely. For example, if your brake pads are pressing against a warped rotor, the car may shake or vibrate while you’re driving. Not only is it unsafe, but warped rotors make for an unenjoyable, bumpy ride.

Well-maintained brakes contribute to smoother deceleration, allowing seamless transitions between speeds and better handling in all conditions. Skipping regular brake inspections can lead to diminished stopping power, longer braking distances, and potential brake system failures, which are both dangerous and inconvenient. By prioritizing inspections and maintenance, drivers can feel confident they’re optimizing their vehicle’s performance.

Fewer Repairs and Replacements

Benjamin Franklin probably wasn’t talking about braking systems when he said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,” but it certainly applies. Brakes are complex, and each component has the potential to impact another. Identifying problems early on can help you preserve other parts of the system and help you avoid repair costs that you could have avoided by taking a proactive approach to maintenance.

Small replacements, like brake pads, for example, can help you extend the life of your brakes and prevent other components, such as your rotors, from declining prematurely. Finally, because brakes play such an essential role in safely maneuvering your vehicle, your potential savings may also include damage to your vehicle’s body because you couldn’t stop before a collision. Furthermore, rising insurance costs following an accident can haunt you for months, if not years. When you add up the risk vs. reward, the results are clear: regular brake inspections and maintenance are an investment in your physical and financial well-being.

Schedule Your Brake Service at a Dobbs Tire & Auto Location Near You

Like many other components of your vehicle, routine inspections go a long way in preventing costly repairs to your braking system. Everyone’s car and driving style is different, but having your brakes looked over every six months is a general guideline that works for most drivers. Don’t wait until your brakes squeal to have them looked over by a professional. Whether you need regular, routine maintenance or a complete brake overhaul, the expert and certified technicians at any of our 43 Dobbs locations can provide high-quality services at affordable prices. Contact us today to schedule your brake inspection and enjoy total confidence on the road.