Brakes Services in Richmond, VA

How Your Brakes Work

You have no doubt been in a situation where you’ve had to slam on your brakes, thankful that they work so well. Applying your vehicle's brakes is an example of stopping kinetic energy, which is present when your car is moving. Most automobiles today have anti-lock brakes. The ABS, or anti-lock braking system, is a four-wheel system that modulates braking pressure automatically during a quick stop. When the brakes are engaged, fluid is forced through a set of valves from a master cylinder, causing pressure that is transmitted to the hydraulic control units at each wheel. You can learn more about ABS from the pros at Meineke #1226 in Richmond, VA.

Why It Is Important to Keep Your ABS Working

Braking sharply is risky but at times necessary in order to avoid a road hazard. One of the major risks of braking is losing control of your car, which could lead to a major accident. The anti-lock system monitors rotational speed and performs a sophisticated algorithm of releasing and pumping the brakes that prevents wheels from locking up and lets the driver retain control. A malfunctioning ABS is particularly risky when driving on a slippery or icy surface, in bad weather or on loose material such as gravel. For best performance, be sure to get a regular ABS brake service check at Meineke #1226 in Richmond, VA.

Warning Signs of Brake Malfunction

If you notice any of the signs of impending brake failure, do not continue to drive your car. Common signs include a lit ABS light, clicking or grinding noises while braking or a pulsation of the pedal when braking. You should also have your brakes inspected if you notice that your car is taking longer to come to a stop or pulls to one side when braking. Other red flags include increased drag when accelerating or lack of resistance when pressing on the brake pedal. For ABS brake service and all types of brake repairs, visit Meineke #1226 in Richmond, VA.

Should You Ignore Your Anti-Lock Service Light?

It might seem strange that your regular brakes work properly even though the ABS brake light is on. This is no reason to ignore the light, because the anti-lock brakes prevent hydroplaning or skidding in adverse weather conditions. The ABS brakes give you more traction when you’re on a slick surface. The new technology of braking gives you even more control over your car, even if you start to slide. Bring your vehicle to Meineke #1226 in Richmond, VA for ABS brake service to keep you and your passengers safe under any type of driving conditions.

Signs You Need to Replace Your ABS

The anti lock braking system is key to optimal vehicle safety. It is one of the most important components of your car, and any malfunction is a sign that you need to get it checked right away. While some ABS problems can be fixed with relative ease, others mean that it is time to replace the entire system. A major sign that you may need a new ABS is when your system kicks in randomly, even under normal driving conditions. This indicates a high likelihood that both the sensors and the control unit are malfunctioning. Learn more about ABS replacement or upgrade at Meineke #1226 in Richmond, VA.

Saving Money on Brake Service

We know that you’re as interested in great ABS brake service as you are in an economical solution to your car’s specific issues. The specialists at Meineke #1226 in Richmond, VA, are familiar with every kind of brake problem. Our goal is to offer solutions that are effective while still being as considerate as possible to your budget. This is why we recommend that drivers pay attention to any warning signals raised by their anti-lock brakes and come in promptly for an inspection. Catching potential problems early is definitely the most cost-effective road to take.