Braking system maintenance

Brakes checkup and replacement 

Brakes are part of you security when driving. In that respect, our experts make a complete checkup of all the braking system in order to inspect each component. Each element is inspected and replaced if needed. And because at Point S, we think that security is not a matter of budget, we make sure that this service is at your disposal for an affordable price.

What is a braking system?

The braking system is complex and composed of a group of mechanical, electronic and hydraulically elements which use friction to make possible to slow down and stop the moving vehicle in the best conditions. A good braking system enables:

• Stability in keeping track of the vehicle
• Efficiency in a minimum time and distance
• Progressiveness with braking proportional to the driver's effort
• Comfort with minimum effort by the driver
• Regulator
• Tubing

Several components are part of braking system:

• The brake padsenable to slow down the rotation of the wheel by pitching the discs. There are two pads per wheel, each side of the discs. The wear of a brake pad varies with the number of brakings and their intensity. Indeed, with each braking, the friction of the pads on the disk wears the filling of these two elements.
• The brake discsare iron elements fixed to the wheel hub. They are used to slow down the wheel in order to stop the vehicle.

How does ABS Braking system work?

The ABS system (Anti-Locking System, from the German Anti blockier system) is mandatory by car manufactures since 2004. The goal of an ABS system is to prevent wheel lockup when braking suddenly in order to keep the car stable. The driver keeps the control of its vehicle in case of urgently braking and can avoid risks of accident.

During braking, the ABS system works with:

• A hydraulic unit that regulates the brake fluid pressure
• An electronic calculator that controls the hydraulic unit
• A speed and target sensor, which monitors the speed of each wheel
• An indicator on the dashboard that indicates malfunction

Brakes wear indicators

The brakes can be worn on two levels, on the brake pads and that of the brake discs. Discover some indicators that can alarm you on the condition of your brakes.

Brake pad wear indicators

The brakes can be worn at two levels: the brake pads and the brake discs. Discover some indicators that can alarm you on the condition of your brakes

But you can also take into consideration the following signs that alarm you on the condition of you brake pads:

• A loss of efficiency in braking
• Strident pads
• The pedal decline more and more to the floor
• Vibrations during braking

• Check level of brake fluid. Indeed, when a plate wears, the master cylinder draws more oil.

You must therefore change the brake pads of your vehicle for an optimal braking before the lining is completely worn.

Brake disc wear indicators

Brake disc wear varies depending on the weight of the vehicle, the driving style, and the type of road you use. Indeed, a regular braking will use the discs more quickly than a greater use of the engine brake. Be careful if you notice any of the following signs, it's time to have your brake discs checked :

• When braking suddenly, a vibration is felt in the pedal,
• During a visual inspection, the discs are dug
• On each disk is indicated the minimum thickness. If it is below, the replacement of the disc is necessary.

When to replace brakes?

Brakes are elements of your vehicle that should be checked on regular basis by professional to ensure the safety of your car. Indeed, the brakes wear over the time and it decreases the braking efficiency. Moreover, the braking system wear depends on the type of driving, but also on several other factors. Caliper shaft maintenance and brake oil change prevent damages to other components that can incur high repair expenses

We advise you to check the braking system of your vehicle at least twice a year to improve its lifetime. Make an appointment with our experts or visit your nearest Point S center to check your braking system.