From CarJunky.com
Don't Compromise Safety When It Comes To Brakes
By
Thu, 19 Jun 2003, 21:46
(NAPSI)-Slowly but surely, the majority of motorists are recognizing the warning signs that signal a brake job is due-by hearing a noise or noticing a pedal that feels low or spongy. In fact, according to Aftermarket Business Magazine, the number of motorists who pay attention to brake warning signs is now at 80 percent.
Brakes are one of the most important features on a vehicle and motorists should ask their local mechanic to use premium products specific to their vehicle's needs, especially if they want great braking performance.
Eric Brown, Manager of Engineering for Bendix Brakes, comments, "With as much time as we spend in our vehicles, we should never compromise safety. The cost difference between a top-quality, application-specific brand and a no-name generic brand is often only about $10 to $15 per axle-a small price to pay for a more comprehensive and safer brake job."
So what kind of brakes are most suitable for your vehicles? If you drive an import car, such as a Honda, Nissan or Volvo, you probably already know that they are prone to brake noise, especially following disc pad replacement. These annoying squeaks may occur after an otherwise quality brake job and can be eliminated by installing an import-specific brake pad, such as Bendix® Import Quiet®. It has a unique friction formula that provides noise-free braking, outstanding performance and long-lasting wear. Installing these pads on your import car can help eliminate annoying brake squeaks and make your ride more enjoyable.
If you drive an SUV, minivan or pickup truck, you should also check with your installer on what brakes work best.
"These types of vehicles often haul heavier loads and take longer to come to a stop than passenger cars, so it only makes sense to use application-specific pads designed to handle the added burden," says Brown. "Again, use a brake pad engineered to meet the heavy demands imposed on these vehicles such as Bendix® SUV disc brake pads. When you are towing a trailer or boat, or you are carting around a van full of kids, you can rest assured that your brakes can handle the added weight and demanding driving conditions."
Brown recommends brake inspections by an ASE-certified mechanic every year-especially if the area you live in is subjected to all four seasons. Make sure the braking system receives a thorough inspection, and that fluid levels and their conditions are assessed-they can directly impact brake performance. It's also very important to have the condition of your vehicle's tires checked. If the tread is worn down, it will be much harder to keep your vehicle under control when driving on wet or slick roads.
"Good brakes are essential for your driving safety, as well as for your passengers and others on the road," adds Brown. "The next time you need to have your brake pads replaced, be sure to ask your installer to use premium pads that are designed for your vehicle's special requirements. The extra cost is well worth it."
When replacing your brake pads, be sure to use pads that are meant for your kind of car.
When replacing your brake pads, be sure to use pads that are meant for your kind of car.
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