Tips for the correct maintenance of the brakes

Brakes are the main safety devices for Spanish drivers. It is true that we need to have all the elements of our vehicle, both passive and active, in good condition to maximize the conditions of the car. However, when surveys go out, drivers always refer to the braking system. This leads us to present a series of braking tricks to keep your brakes in good condition and increase your safety and that of yours at the wheel.

Periodic reviews, good driving practices and attention to the signals that the car sends us . These are the three fundamental pillars on which to base our maintenance of the brakes, although we will break down more deeply the concrete habits so that the vehicle is at optimum levels. So pay attention to our tips to keep the brakes in good condition.

First, try to drive smoothly and avoid sudden movements . Braking constantly or stepping on the brake are usually the main causes of the wear of our brake pads and brake discs. If this happens, we have to try to modify our habits and go to the mechanical workshop quickly to change the pieces.

The place where we live also affects the state of our braking system regardless of what our driving practices are. Living in a city full of hills and slopes or having our house on top of a mountain and having to move daily to go to work are circumstances that will force our brakes much more than if we live in a plain or village with hardly any hills.

How the engine brake works

In relation to the two previous points, the most efficient method to avoid the wear of the brakes (especially on steep slopes) is the engine brake . We have to see the gearbox of our vehicle as our first option to brake. Lower a gear or two and avoid stepping on the pedal all the time.

Nowadays, cars have a multitude of indications to warn us if any part of the vehicle is failing. The brakes too. Even the touch of our foot with the pedal has to remain our first guide.

Warning signs

If the brake pedal is very hard or we need to step very hard for the car to brake properly, the pads, discs or both elements are worn and our braking distance will be greater no matter how hard we step. Change them as soon as possible.

On the contrary, if the pedal barely offers resistance, the fault may consist of a leak in the brake circuit, air in the system or brake fluid that is damaged or contaminated.

The sound also works as a pilot. If, when braking, you hear an annoying and sharp screech, it probably means that, despite having changed the pads, the discs are worn and you need new ones. Visit your mechanic.

Another sign that your brakes are worn is a slight - or strong, depends on the degree of wear-vibration in the steering wheel, to step on the brake pedal.

Be as it is and although you do not notice any of the signs that we are indicating along these lines, never postpone your review beyond the 20,000 kilometers , the maximum recommended distance of change of the pads. Your habits and your locality can make the system wear less, but from this distance the quality suffers.

Put our tips into practice and enjoy the miles that count. The pleasure of traveling is within your reach and it is you who can make your travel by car a comfortable trip.