What to ask?

🔧 1. What are the signs of worn brake pads?

• Squealing or squeaking noise—metal wear indicator scraping the rotor

• Grinding sound—pad material gone, metal backing contacting the rotor

• Vibrating or pulsating brake pedal—warped rotors or uneven pad wear

• Longer stopping distances due to reduced friction

• Visible brake pad wear below ¼″ (≈3 mm) through wheel spokes
   

⏱️ 2. How often should I replace brake pads?

• Typically every 30,000–70,000 miles, based on driving habits and pad material

• Experts recommend a visual pad check every 5,000 miles and a professional brake inspection annually
   

🔩 3. How do I know if my brake rotors are worn or warped?

• Look for grooves, cracks, glazing, or warping

• Persistent squealing or grinding after pad replacement often indicates damaged rotors

• Feel for pedal vibration or pulsation—common with warped rotors
   

💧 4. When should I change brake fluid?

• Brake fluid is hygroscopic—it absorbs moisture, lowering its boiling point

• Most manufacturers recommend a fluid flush every 2 years or around 30,000 miles

• In high-humidity climates, more frequent changes (every 2–3 years) are advised

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⚠️ 5. Why does the brake pedal feel soft or spongy?

• Causes include air in brake lines, low or contaminated brake fluid, or master cylinder failure

• These issues compromise braking performance and should be addressed immediately
   

🚨 6. What causes brake fade and how can I prevent it?

• Brake fade occurs from overheating pads or rotors, reducing stopping power

• Extended downhill drives, towing, or aggressive braking are common triggers

• Prevention includes using high-quality brakes, avoiding overheating, and maintaining fluid levels
   

🛑 7. What does ABS (Anti‑Lock Braking System) do?

• ABS prevents wheel lock-up by rapidly pulsing brake pressure

• Helps maintain steering control during emergency braking

• Activation may cause a pulsating brake pedal sensation

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🧰 8. Disc brakes vs drum brakes — which is better?

• Disc brakes offer superior heat dissipation, stopping power, and resistance to fade

• Drum brakes are older, less effective, and mainly used on rear wheels of budget or older cars

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🧊 9. What is a brake master cylinder, and how do I know it's failing?

• Master cylinder converts pedal pressure into hydraulic force

• Failure signs: fluid leaks, spongy pedal, dashboard brake warnings, or uneven braking
   

🅿️ 10. What is the parking brake, and how does it work?

• Also known as handbrake or emergency brake, it mechanically locks the rear wheels

• Operates via cable or electronic actuator, preventing vehicle roll on inclines