Summer Driving Essentials: Preparing Your Brakes For Hot Weather
Summer is on its way, and with it comes the prospect of taking your car out for sun-filled drives. Before you hit the road, however, it's important to make sure that your brakes are in good condition for the hot weather.
Heat can have a major impact on brake performance, so it's important to take the necessary steps to ensure your safety while driving. Here are some tips for making sure your brakes are in great shape as the weather heats up.
How Does Hot Weather Affect Brake Performance?
When the temperature starts to rise, your brakes are more susceptible to warping or cracking. This can happen due to the increased friction between your brake pads and rotors. In addition, the increased heat can cause brake fluid to become less viscous, leading to a decrease in braking power. Brake fluid naturally absorbs moisture over time, so it is also important to check that your brake fluid is clean and free of contaminants.
Overheating Brakes Are Dangerous
If your brakes become overheated, this can lead to a decrease in brake performance as well as excessive wear on the brake pads and rotors. It is also possible for your brakes to become locked up due to the heat, which can be a serious safety hazard.
Signs the Summer Heat Is Affecting Your Brakes
If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to take your car in for a brake check:
- The brakes feel soft or spongy
- The brake pedal is slow to return
- The brakes make loud grinding noises
- Your car pulls to one side when braking
These are all signs that you need to talk to a professional about your brakes as quickly as possible.
How a Brake Technician Can Help
A brake technician can inspect your brakes and make sure that they are in good condition before the summer months. They will also be able to check your brake fluid to make sure that it is clean and free of any contaminants. A technician can also replace worn or damaged brake pads and rotors to ensure that your brakes will function properly in the heat.
Talk to an Auto Repair Professional
It's important to keep in mind that brake performance is essential for safety while driving, so it's important to have your brakes checked regularly by a professional. By taking the necessary steps to maintain your brakes, you can make sure that your car is ready for summer driving.
Contact a local brake service to learn more.