Brake Repair & Inspection in Westmont, Illinois

Understanding Your Anti-lock Brakes

Anti-lock brakes were designed to help you control your car during adverse driving conditions. The ABS system keeps the wheels of your vehicle from locking up, preventing skids when the road is wet or icy. Prior to anti-lock brakes, a driver would have to pump the brakes manually to prevent this phenomenon. Anti-lock brakes sense when your vehicle is in a skid condition and pulse the brakes hundreds of times per minute, which is much quicker than any driver could react. Although ABS brakes also reduce the stopping distance of your vehicle, this is not the main purpose of having ABS brakes. Get more information about anti-lock brakes at Meineke #493 in Westmont, IL.

The Importance of ABS Systems

ABS brakes were designed to prevent lock-ups and skids but also offer a few other benefits. Some insurance companies offer discounts for having this safety device because it has a track record of effectively preventing accidents. ABS is standard on today’s vehicles. Without this system on your vehicle, you may not get the premium resale value. Although the ABS system cost does add to the overall cost of your car, it’s worth the added safety and value. Talk to the technicians at Meineke #493 in Westmont, IL for more information about ABS brakes.

Signs Your ABS System Needs Service

Vehicles equipped with an ABS brake system generally have a dashboard light associated with the system. Some older vehicles may use the check engine light. However, your car will start to show physical signs during ABS brake failure. It may require more effort to press down on the brake pedal or the pedal may actually be unresponsive. If your ABS brakes need service, you will still have control and use of your regular braking system. This is not a reason to ignore ABS brake service. Bring your vehicle to the trusted technicians at Meineke #493 in Westmont, IL for repairs and maintenance.

What Happens if You Put off Repairs to Your Anti-lock Brakes

Even if your anti-lock brakes fail, your car is probably still drivable. The ABS brakes will switch off if the components fail, but the regular brakes on your car still work. This can still be a problem if you get into a panic situation where you expect your brakes to pump themselves to get you out of a skid. Don’t put off repairs to the anti-lock brakes, even if you’re not expecting icy or snowy weather. The ABS system also keeps your auto from hydroplaning in wet driving conditions. Maintain your brakes with silicone brake fluid or mineral brake fluid by coming to the professionals at Meineke #493 in Westmont, IL.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Brakes

While some types of brake problems can be fixed by replacing the brake fluid, others need a more fundamental system overhaul. The top sign that a replacement is needed is noticeable loss of function in your breaks. If you are pressing your pedal and encountering no resistance, this could be a sign of systematic failure. If your ABS system is kicking in during normal driving, it may need to be replaced. Get a better idea of replacement brake and ABS system cost by speaking with representatives at Meineke #493 in Westmont, IL.

Save Money On Your ABS Upgrade

If you are thinking about replacing your anti lock system, a reputable service center can help you choose the best one for your car and help you ensure optimal function. Today’s manufacturers are continually improving sensitivity and reaction time in order to improve safety. As part of your brake’s mechanism, your ABS is affected by the type of brake fluid you use. High quality fluid is less prone to clogging your valves, so it is important to know where to buy brake fluid that is right for your system. Ask the professionals at Meineke #493 in Westmont, IL about replacing and maintaining your ABS, as well as brake fluid cost.