Introduction: Ensuring the safety of a vehicle is a paramount concern for both drivers and automotive professionals. Among the various components that contribute to a vehicle's safety, brakes stand out as a critical element. In this blog post, we will delve into the importance of brakes in ensuring a safe driving experience and shed light on the practice of burnishing brake pads. We'll also explore the detailed process we follow at ZZ Shop, all the steps we take with every brake job to enhance their performance.
The Crucial Role of Brakes in Vehicle Safety: Brakes play a pivotal role in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. They are the primary mechanism responsible for slowing down and stopping a vehicle when needed. A well-maintained braking system is essential for effective vehicle control, especially during emergency situations.
Stopping Power: The ability of brakes to provide sufficient stopping power is crucial in avoiding collisions. A well-functioning brake system allows drivers to bring their vehicles to a halt promptly, preventing accidents and reducing the severity of potential crashes.
Control and Stability: Brakes contribute significantly to the overall control and stability of a vehicle. Responsive brakes enable drivers to navigate through challenging road conditions, sudden obstacles, or sharp turns with confidence. This control is essential for preventing skidding and maintaining stability.
Preventing Wear and Tear: Regular brake maintenance helps prevent excessive wear and tear on the braking components. Timely inspections and necessary repairs ensure that the braking system remains in optimal condition, reducing the risk of brake failure.
The Importance of Burnishing Brake Pads: One crucial aspect of brake maintenance that often goes unnoticed at most shops is the process of burnishing brake pads. Burnishing is the practice of preparing new brake pads or to enhance their performance and longevity. At ZZ Shop, we consider burnishing an integral part of every brake job we undertake.
The Burnishing Process: At ZZ Shop, we follow a meticulous burnishing process to ensure the best possible performance from your brake pads. This process involves 20 "slow-downs" from 50-mph to 20-mph with light to moderate pedal pressure, specifically avoiding panic stops. It is crucial to allow at least 30 seconds between brake applications for the brake pads or shoes to cool down.
Cool Down Procedures: Following cool down procedures is critical to avoid damaging NAO, Ceramic, and Semi-Met friction material, as well as the rotor/drum. We strictly adhere to these procedures to prevent any adverse effects on the braking components.
Performing a proper brake job is crucial for ensuring the safety and optimal performance of a vehicle's braking system. Here are the steps we take at ZZ shop when we do a brake job:
Lift and Secure the Vehicle: Lift the vehicle using an appropriate automotive lift and secure it in place. Ensure that the vehicle is stable and won't move during the brake job.
Vehicle Inspection: Begin by inspecting the entire braking system, including brake pads, rotors, calipers, brake lines, and brake fluid. Identify any signs of wear, damage, or leaks.
Remove Wheels: Take off the wheels to gain access to the braking components. Use a lug wrench or appropriate tools to remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheels.
Brake Caliper Removal: Remove the brake caliper by loosening the caliper bolts. Support the caliper using a hanger or bungee cord to prevent unnecessary strain on the brake line.
Inspect Brake Pads/Shoes: Inspect the brake pads/shoes for unusual wear.
Remove and Check Rotors: Examine the brake rotors for any signs of scoring, warping, or uneven wear. If the rotors are within permissible limits, consider resurfacing. Otherwise, replace them. Match the rotor specifications with the vehicle's requirements.
Inspect the Brake Caliper: Check the brake caliper for any damage or leaks. If necessary, rebuild or replace the caliper. Ensure that the caliper slides freely to allow even brake pad wear. Grease slide pins.
Brake Hardware Evaluation: Inspect and, if needed, replace the brake hardware, including clips, springs, and shims. Proper hardware ensures the correct functioning of the braking system.
Brake Fluid Check and/or Replacement: Check the brake fluid level and condition. If the fluid is dirty or low or contaminated with copper from wear, or moisture being that its a hygroscopic fluid. If needed perform a brake fluid exchange. Use the recommended brake fluid specified by the vehicle manufacturer.
Clean the Hub Surface: Before reassembling, re-clean the hub surface and the mating surface on the wheel to ensure a clean and secure connection.
Assemble and Torque: Reassemble the brake components, including the caliper, brake pads, and wheels. Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications to ensure proper fastening.
Burnishing Process: Perform the burnishing process by conducting 20 "slow-downs" from 50-mph to 20-mph with light to moderate pedal pressure. Avoid panic stops and allow sufficient time for cooling between applications.
Final Inspection: Conduct a final inspection of the entire braking system to ensure everything is properly installed and functioning. Test drive the vehicle to confirm that the brakes are responsive and noise-free.
Conclusion: Brakes are undeniably one of the most crucial components when it comes to vehicle safety. Prioritizing regular brake maintenance and incorporating burnishing into brake jobs, following a precise process, are essential practices for ensuring optimal performance and extending the life of the braking system. At ZZ Shop we are committed to not only providing top-notch brake services but also enhancing the safety of every vehicle on the road. Drive safely, and remember that well-maintained brakes are your best allies on the journey!