Auto Repair Pros Brake Service
At Auto Repair Pros, our ASE Certified Mechanics can expertly repair or replace all of the components of your vehicle’s braking system. We’ll diagnose the issue so stay safe on the roads by scheduling an appointment to get your brakes checked at one of our three convenient locations.
When you arrive at any of our Auto Repair Pros locations, you’ll be greeted by one of our friendly and knowledgeable associates. While your vehicle is being serviced by one of our ASE Certified Mechanics, you can relax in our comfortable lounge, connect to our complimentary Wifi, and enjoy a variety of beverage options.
How do I know if I need new brakes?
Here are some warning signs that it may be time to service your brakes:
- Squealing noises. If you are hearing squealing or squeaking noises when you step on the brake pedal, it could be a sign that your brake pad is contacting the rotor which indicates the brake pads are significantly worn and need to be replaced.
- Grinding noises. Again, when you hear noises coming from your vehicle’s brakes, it’s generally a sign your brakes need some maintenance. Metal scraping against metal can significantly damage your rotors and lead to additional repairs.
- Vibration or shudders when braking. This could be due to uneven buildup of material or warping of your rotors. Our ASE Certified Mechanics will evaluate the rotors and either replace them or smooth out any flaws that may be causing the vibrations.
- Soft brake pedal. If it feels like your brake pedal is soft and you have to push it all the way to the floor, it may indicate an issue with your brake fluid or could be a problem with the master cylinder.
- Brake light indicator is on. Much like the “Check Engine” light, most vehicles these days have a dashboard light indicator specifically for brakes. Bring your vehicle into one of our convenient locations and we’ll scan the code and diagnose the issue.
How long do brake pads and shoes last?
Well, the answer is it depends. Your driving habits and even where you live will have a significant impact on the life of your brake pads and shoes. Do you live in a city/suburb with a lot of stop-and-go traffic? Are you a heavy braker? If so, your vehicle’s brake pads and shoes will generally last somewhere in the range of 25,000 – 35,000 miles.
If you do most of your driving cruising on the highway, drive at a slower speed, or live in a more rural area, you may be able to extend the life of your brake pads and shoes to as much as 70,000 miles.
The type of brake pad on your car can also make a big difference. Organic brake pads generally have the lowest lifespan. Semi-metallic brake pads are made for performance with better durability and response than organic brake pads. Ceramic brake pads will generally have the longest life.
How long will it take to repair or replace my brakes?
Brake services can take between 1-3 hours depending on the service being performed.
Here are some common brake services and the associated time.
- Brake Inspection (not including repairs): 15-30 minutes
- Replace or Exchange Brake Fluid: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Replace Brake Pads: 30 minutes – 1 hour
- Replace Brake Calipers: 2-3 hours per caliper
- Brake Rotor Repair: 1 hour
- Replace Brake Master Cylinder: 2-8 hours
What is an ASE Certified Mechanic?
We have mentioned several times that Auto Repair Pros employs ASE Certified Mechanics. So, what does that mean? ASE is short for the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, an independent non-profit organization formed in 1972 with the mission of improving the quality of vehicle repair and service.
In order to become ASE certified, our associates must pass an ASE certification test and have at least two years of on-the-job training, or one year of on-the-job training and a two-year degree in automotive repair to qualify for certification.
Because automotive technology is advancing at a rapid pace, our ASE Certified Mechanics must keep up their education and retest every five years.