Up to 55% of all road accidents are due to brake failures. Brake maintenance and repairs are highly essential for every driver – whether they are driving a car, SUV or a truck. With proper brake maintenance, drivers can prevent accidents, save costs in the long-run, and ensure responsible driving. Reports show that brake failure, improper maintenance, or ‘other brake problems’ are the causes of most road accidents. Drivers often underestimate the importance of brake maintenance and spend all their money trying to fix their engines. In reality, brake maintenance isn’t as tough and time-consuming as many drivers believe it to be. The maintenance will definitely cost you less than repairs. Most modern cars, SUVs, and trucks have disc brakes, which consist of five elements: discs, calipers, brake pads, brake lines, and a master cylinder. Here are some tips on how to maintain your vehicle brakes and avoid costly repairs every now and then. Keep a Check on Brake Pads and Rotors The brake pads and rotors are the elements that connect the brakes to the tires. The pads and rotors need frequent maintenance as the contact causes friction, and the friction causes wear and tear. The quality and depth of the brake pads are essential to ensure sufficient resistance, which results in controlled and safe driving. The two common signs that indicate that your brake pads and rotors need repair are pushing the brake harder to stop the car and the burning odor when using the brake. These problems can be avoided by checking the pads and rotors every three weeks or a month. Flush the Brake Fluid Brake fluid acts as the messenger that transfers the pressure from the brake lines to the calipers and then to the brake pads and rotors, causing the vehicle to stop. Moisture in the brake fluid causes corrosion in the metal components and reduces the effectiveness of the brakes. The fluid needs to be flushed out and changed every 25,000 miles to keep the brakes running smoothly and avoid corrosion. Clear the Brake Lines Brake lines trap air in small amounts that eventually build up and reduce the efficiency of the brakes. Clearing the brake lines means releasing the excess air trapped inside. Usually, this is an annual maintenance thing, unless you feel the brake system is not as efficient as it was before. Upgrade Brake Parts An essential part of brake maintenance is upgrading the braking system of your vehicle for higher performance and better efficiency. Specialized components and advanced braking systems, which are more resistant and produce less brake dust, are good options to switch to. These components will improve the performance of your brakes and enhance their lifespan. If you are living in Berkeley, CA, Ocean Works II provides the best brake maintenance services. Our experts ensure that your braking system lasts longer through thorough inspection and monitoring. Visit our website for more information on brake services.