Disc-brake systems are easier to inspect and repair than their old pal drum brakes because the drum obscured many components. Today, average home mechanics can easily replace disc pads. Bigger problems, however, like fluid leaks and rotor surface irregularities, should be brought to a professional mechanic.
Breaking it down
Visually inspect your brakes every time the wheels are removed for tire rotation or other service. Note: Wear a filtering mask when you inspect your brakes as the brake dust may contain harmful asbestos.
- You can usually inspect the pads through the opening in the caliper body.
- If the lining thickness is about 1/8 inch or less, the pads should be replaced.
- Most pad pairs have a wear sensor – a little metal tab that rubs against the rotor and makes a squealing sound when the pad has little lining left. Heed the squeal.
- Always inspect the rotors too.
- Look for obvious signs of wear, like cracks, gouges or burned spots.
- Run your fingers across the pad-contact area to feel for hills and valleys on the rotor's friction surface. Irregularities mean you should resurface (if the rotor is thick enough) or replace the rotor.
- Many parts stores will resurface your rotors at a reduced rate if you’re purchasing brake pads there. They’ll also help you select the right pad material for your vehicle and driving style.
- Check the level of the brake fluid in the master-cylinder reservoir once a month.
- Fresh fluid is clear/translucent. Old fluid is dark and dirty due to contamination by brake dust, dirt and moisture. Always replace dark brake fluid.
- If the fluid is clean but the level is slightly low, top it off by pouring fluid into the reservoir.
- If your brake fluid frequently needs to be topped off, you may have a leak in the system, possibly in one of the brake lines.
- Note: Wipe the top and lip of the bottle clean before adding fluid, to avoid contaminating the system. Avoid spilling brake fluid on painted surfaces; the liquid will damage paint.
- Look for signs of leaking brake fluid.
- Common seepage locations are below the master cylinder, at brake-line fittings and in the boot area of the caliper's pistons.
- Once you’ve found and stopped the leak, you may need to bleed the brakes.
- Other warning signs of trouble include
- Excessive brake dust
- A warped drum or disc
- A defective or damaged wheel cylinder or caliper
- Grease or fluid in the area of the pads, shoes, drum or disc
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