Brake basics

Car brakes are the most crucial part of your vehicle when it comes to safety and are often the part most overlooked until urgent action is required. Understanding the importance of your brakes and how to keep them in the best shape directly impacts your safety on the road and the standard of your vehicle's handling.

Probite specialises in advanced and modern disc brakes, the most common type of automotive braking system. These types of brakes use pads that are specially designed pieces of friction material made of organic, metallic, or ceramic substances that use this friction to slow the car down by pressing against the brake disc's accepting surface. You will find disc brakes on the front axle of most modern vehicles and on both axles in all larger and mid-range to premium vehicles.

Stresses, wear and corrosion with regular use causes brake discs and pads to become weaker with time. Not monitoring their conditions can lead to costly repairs and even the risk of malfunctioning on the road.

When to change your brakes?
Knowing when to replace brake pads or discs is crucial for ensuring the efficiency of your car and the safety of your family or others on the road.

Here are some signs to watch out for.

• Squealing or screeching sounds
  If your brake pads have started to wear out, you will often hear squealing or screeching when you press the brakes. This is caused by a small metal plate attached to the brake pad that serves for this exact purpose - to let you know they need attention.
  
  
• Half a centimetre of brake pad
  Another way of checking the health of your brakes is to visually inspect what is called the calliper and the pad inside. If you notice that the brake pad is only half a centimetre thick, it’s time to bring the car into the garage for an inspection.
  
  
• Metallic grinding or growling
  You may hear these sounds on engaging the brakes when your brake pads have worn away to a point that there is contact between the brake’s backing place and disc. This can cause further damage very quickly. So if you’re hearing these sounds, the brake pads need to be replaced immediately.
  
  
• Indicator lights
  Many vehicles have indicators on the car’s dashboard that warn you of brake pad issues. Check your manual to know more about what each indicator means. If you see the indicator lighting up, don’t ignore it. Have the brakes thoroughly inspected.

The best way to keep your brakes in good shape is through frequent inspection. Staying ahead of the problem is the best way to prevent it.