Not so many parts in a modern car have remained the same over the last hundred years. But the brake discs are still made of heat-resistant cast iron.
Of course, they became ventilated, sometimes even floating. Some cars are famous for their excellent brakes and the highest level of safety, while others, on the contrary, cannot boost brake reliability. But in essence, any brakes were and remain a flat cast-iron pancake against which the brake pads are pressed with force. With frequent intense braking, the disc becomes very hot, sometimes red hot, which is why it is made of cast iron – one of the most heat-stable iron alloys. However, this material may not withstand thermal and mechanical loads. And even more so, the pads can be destroyed a thousand miles away.
So, how can you extend the life of your brakes? Experienced mechanics from the Indy Auto Man used vehicle dealership, Indianapolis, explained how to take care of the brakes so they serve for thousands of miles.
Driving in a city
When driving around a big city like Indianapolis in an ordinary car, it is almost impossible to overheat the brakes. Even if you are accelerating and braking from traffic light to traffic light a dozen times, the discs are unlikely to get red hot. But what is dangerous for them is sudden cooling in the nearest puddle. Like any metal, cast iron warps when subjected to sudden cooling. Simply put, a sports race with powerful braking and the final splashing of the wheels in a puddle can end with a beating and replacement of the discs.
When traveling with a minimum daily mileage and without any extreme braking at all, the mechanism also deteriorates. The brakes are designed in such a way that their normal operation is guaranteed with average pedal pressure. Very gentle handling, especially in winter in the snow, and reagents are as harmful as racing mode. It leads to souring and jamming of the pads, uneven disc wear, and a large amount of oxide. In addition, the pad linings absorb moisture and do not have time to dry out. Therefore, brake properly “to the floor” at an average speed at least once a week. Usually, this is enough to invigorate the mechanism.
On a highway
On a highway, on the contrary, it’s easy to overheat the pads and discs. Three or four straight brakes to the floor from 80 miles per hour in front of a summer resident slowly crawling in the left lane, and smoke from the wheels is guaranteed. Be prepared to change the pads upon arrival. The conclusion is simple – look further ahead, reduce speed in advance, and break to the floor less often. And if you have to brake in an emergency, do not touch the brakes for a minute, letting them cool down while driving. Standing is also bad – it worsens cooling.
Rough terrain
Mountain serpentines are the most common place where brakes are killed. A long descent requires continuous deceleration, and if you don’t want to lose your brakes at some point, use engine braking. Shift down into a lower gear and use the gas pedal to control the pace on the descent. At the same time, you will save fuel.
Driving through deep sand increases the risk of getting it between the pads and the disc. It is best to clean the brakes thoroughly with a pressure washer, or at least not brake too hard for a few miles to allow the sand to fall out. After crossing the ford, wet pads need to be dried by driving with the brake pressed for 10-15 seconds.
Idling
Finally, leaving the car idle for a long time (from a week or more) on the street, especially in wet or snowy weather, is fraught with unpleasant consequences. The brake pad will stick to the disc mirror, and a corrosion center will form in this place. The situation will worsen at the moment of starting – the pad will come off either with microparticles of the disk or leaving an edge of its material on the disk. Both are harmful. Fortunately, the disc needs to be sanded after this. Otherwise, local wear with chipping is very likely, resulting in a severe beating.
This is not a complete list of techniques and skills that allow you to change pads less often and save on replacing brake discs. But at least these simple tips will eliminate surprises and make your trips safer.
