You know I hate going to the Doctor. They poke and prod, take X-rays and blood tests, and then come up with some report telling you that you have some rare disease that was born in monkeys 10,000 years ago and you’re one of 17 people in the world that have it. So, generally, with such a positive attitude towards preventive medicine, I’m clearly not the best at rushing to the Doctor when I get a snivel or a headache. But sometimes, it’s clear that maybe I should to avoid deeper problems. At least I admit my shortcomings!

 

Well you know, the same thing goes with your car. Big problems can be prevented when you get some warning signals from your brakes. In short, the brakes should operate very smoothly and should not do anything crazy like pull you to one side or not. 

Vibration: There should be no shake in the car when braking. Warped drums or rotors cause this and there are also other causes for this.

Low pedal: Usually caused by worn out brakes and their inability to adjust up

Hard pedal: caused by a failing power brake system

Squeal: When the friction material gets too close to the metal backing plate, it starts to squeal

Drag: Feels like you’re dragging something. Brakes are staying applied from a bad caliper or brake hose.

Grab: Brakes seem to be on or off. Braking should be smooth, not on and off.

Pull: A sticking caliper on one side or the other will cause this. Of course, you may also have an alignment or other unrelated problem.

Mileage: Brakes should be checked every year.  Hey, stopping is really important.

Grinding: This happens when you don’t pay attention to the above !

So hopefully this helps a bit. If you have further questions, just drop me a note and I’ll see if I can help.

 

And now a word from our sponsor (oh, that’s me)!:

 

Click this link to watch video => http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmKgl4cnOec

 

 

Truly, our shop is a shop you can trust! Frank and I try to make sure we keep it simple and focus hard on being the best neighborhood auto repair shop in town.  In addition, we don’t think you’ll find a friendlier shop anywhere! You’ll hear the huge difference the moment you call…and experience it the day you come in! We know so many of our customers by name and hope to add you to our growing extended family!

 

We're right up here at 6813 McNeil Drive off 183 (in the same parking lot as Custom Car Crafters).

 

Just give us a call to schedule a prompt appointment at (512) 401-2525 and also visit our website at http://www.austinfamilyautorepair.com. Come find out why so many Austin families enjoy “peace of mind” automotive repair.

 

Hope to see you soon!

 

Frank and Sandy Bellucci, Owners

 

 

6813 McNeil Drive

Austin, TX 78729

Monday through Friday 8:00am – 5:30pm.

http://www.austinfamilyautorepair.com