Watch Your Speed
Stopping your vehicle at high speeds is the number one way your brakes are worn down as you drive. This bad driving habit causes brakes to wear down significantly faster than they would at slower speeds. Your brakes begin to work by using the brake pads to reduce the rotation of your brake discs when the vehicle is traveling. When this happens, the brake pads are slowly worn down and the energy of the spinning disc converts into heat. The faster you drive, the more energy you produce, thus generating more heat when the brakes are applied to it. Over time, the heat your brakes produce can wear down its important components, leading to costly repairs and potential damage to your brakes. If you practice slower driving habits, your vehicle will put less stress on your brakes.
Practice Coasting
A great way to reduce your chances of stopping at high speeds is by coasting while you drive. Allowing your vehicle to naturally slow down before applying your brakes at a stop will save you on fuel costs as well as reduce the wear on your brakes. However, keeping an eye on other drivers while you're on the road is an extremely important safety tactic! Remaining mindful of other drivers' behaviors will keep you and your passengers safe.
Consider What You Carry
Whether you're commuting to work or heading out on a road trip, the luggage you keep in your vehicle will directly affect important components on your brakes. The added weight to your vehicle will add pressure and make it more difficult for your brakes to slow down the vehicle, wearing them down at a much faster rate than normal. Keeping your vehicle light and free of excess weight will allow your brakes to perform efficiently without any unnecessary pressure.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It's impossible to predict the behavior of other drivers on the road. Sometimes, drivers will brake or swerve between lanes for no reason, potentially causing the vehicles behind them to have to slam on their brakes. To avoid this, give yourself a wide berth between other vehicles while you're on the freeway to increase your safety and the longevity of your brakes. That way, you'll avoid having to perform unnecessary stops on the road that would otherwise wear your brakes down. Practice this mindful habit next time you're on the freeway!
Have Your Brakes Serviced
One of the best ways to ensure your brakes last a long time is to have regular maintenance performed on them. Investing in regular brake maintenance can help you to avoid expensive replacement costs in the future. If you'd like to have your brakes looked at, bring your vehicle in to the Graff Okemos Service Center! Our attentive staff will go above and beyond to ensure your brakes are working at their absolute best. You can schedule an appointment online without having to leave your couch!
The condition of your brakes can be the difference between a potential accident and remaining unharmed out on the road. Follow our 5 tips to increase the life of your brakes listed above to help keep your brake pads, discs, calipers and other components in good condition. If you plan on having your brakes looked at, utilize our wide array of coupons for brake inspection or other maintenance services to help save you money!
Located conveniently just outside of Lansing, Hank Graff Chevrolet Okemos is here to help you with your car buying and servicing needs. Our goal is to create a transparent experience and a comfortable environment for all of our valuable customers. If you have any questions, or would like to schedule an appointment, reach us at (517) 349-8300, or stop by the dealership at 1748 W. Grand River in Okemos, MI 48864
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