Break Inspections
Get a good one.
Not all brake inspections are created equal. When it comes to brake inspections, the automotive repair industry, unfortunately, is lacking in professionalism. The quality of the inspection varies markedly from one shop to the next. Some feature a “visual brake inspection” (no disassembly required), others the “seat of your pants inspection” (consisting of asking the customer how well their car stops). These are designed to save shops inspection time — and money. Our neck of the woods is no place for either of these methods. The brake system of your vehicle has a lot more power than your engine and, in the Kootenays, you need every last watt (horsepower) of it. Our mountainous terrain and salted roads are extremely tough on brake systems, robbing them of stopping power. I am confident that consumers would welcome a professional Complete Brake Inspection including defined procedures designed to accurately gauge their vehicle’s brake system stopping power.
Nu-Tech’s Complete Brake Inspection
Nu-Tech Auto’s complete brake inspection ( or CBI ) is a defined multistep procedure designed to accurately assess the state of a vehicle’s braking system stopping power. First, the driver is asked to note any brake system problems. Any data regarding: noise, shaking, steering problems, brake pedal feel and warning lights, provides insight and guides the approach to the inspection. A road test will almost always be next unless, of course, the mechanic is concerned for his/her safety while driving the vehicle. This will include a test of the emergency brake system as well as the antilock brake system, (if so equipped). Third, the vehicle is placed on a hoist, the wheels and tires are removed, and the brake system’s components are examined. The hydraulic system’s brake lines and hoses are assessed and the brake fluid tested for deterioration. Each wheel’s disk or drum brake system is evaluated. Here, brake pad and shoe wear is measured; brake drums and rotors are inspected — callipers and wheel cylinders as well. After the CBI, don’t be surprised if we recommend some brake system service, even if you have plenty of brake pad or shoe material left. Your brakes live in a very harsh environment. System components require regular lubrication and cleaning to maintain optimal stopping power.