When you’re driving in any city in Colorado, you have to press a lot on both your gas and your brakes—the stop and go routine is simply part of suburban life. But how much do you really pay attention to what those two little pedals do and how important they are? After all, they perform the major functions that all vehicles need- the power to go and the power to stop. And when it comes to being able to stop, I’m sure we can all agree that we are grateful for our brakes!

It is agreed in the car mechanic and manufacturing world that the brakes are, by far, the most important safety feature of any vehicle. Being able to slow down or stop at a moment’s notice is what keeps you safe on the road, allowing you to avoid accidents, and keep with the pace of traffic. But what happens when your brakes are old or damaged, perhaps because you haven’t kept up with your routine maintenance? It seriously compromises your safety and ability to control your car, putting you, other drivers, and pedestrians at risk.

When you think of regular car maintenance, chances are good that oil changes, tire rotation, and fluid refills come to mind. However, there is a lot more that your Colorado mechanic will look at during a checkup, and one of those things in your brakes. They will look at the brake pad thickness and wear pattern, check the rotors, calipers, cylinders, and brake fluid, among other things. There are a lot of parts that must work together in order to give you smooth and responsive braking on the road, so it’s always a good idea to bring your car into a mechanic any time you feel a difference in your brakes. Some indications that it might be time to have your brakes inspected might be:

• Increase in braking and stopping time
• Wobble when brakes are applied
• Grinding, squeaking, or squealing sounds when brakes are applied
• Pulling to one side when slowing down
• Pulsing or vibration on the brake pedal
• Having to depress brake pedal to the floor in order to stop
• If you ever feel unsafe or out of control while braking

While the brakes may not be the most exciting part of your vehicle, they are hands down one of the most important. Most of the time, maintenance and minor fixes on your brakes are inexpensive, especially when you address the issue early on. All cars will need replacements of brake pads, braking fluid, and other parts a few times during their life spans, so don’t be afraid to ask your mechanic to take a look. Your brakes are what keep you safe and secure on the road, and they deserve some of your love and attention too!

Feel like your brakes are giving you trouble? Book an inspection with your favorite Colorado auto mechanic today!