Brake Repair & Replacement Services in Palmer, MA

The braking system of your vehicle is the most important system in your vehicle since it is there to keep you safe while driving. If your braking system is not working properly, that can pose a high safety risk to you and other drivers. We recommend that you never ignore issues with your braking system and that if you notice anything that seems off, bring your vehicle to Demore’s Automotive where we can fully diagnose your brakes and provide the appropriate repairs if needed. Sometimes all your brakes will need is a pad replacement, and other times it could need serious repair. Instead of waiting to find out, schedule an appointment with the shop that provides the best brake repair Palmer, MA, has to offer.

What Parts Make up the Braking System?

The braking system typically consists of several key components, such as the brake pedal, brake lines, calipers, brake pads, and rotors. When you press the brake pedal, it creates hydraulic pressure that travels through the brake lines to the calipers or wheel cylinders. These components then apply pressure to the brake pads, which press against the rotors (or drums), creating friction that slows down the vehicle.

How Often Should My Brakes Be Serviced?

How often your vehicle’s brakes need servicing can vary based on factors like your driving habits and road conditions. A good rule of thumb is to get them checked whenever you have an oil change. Brake pads typically need replacing every 25,000 to 70,000 miles, but keep an eye out for signs like squealing noises or longer stopping distances, as these might indicate a need for service sooner. Regular maintenance ensures your brakes work well and keep you safe on the road.

Brake System Warning Signs

Here at Demore’s Automotive, we believe in keeping you informed. That is why we are offering these common possible issues with your braking system. 

Spongy Brake Pedal

If the brake pedal feels “spongy” as if you need to press harder to brake to get your vehicle to stop, there is definitely an issue. Several things can cause a brake pedal to feel spongy, including air trapped in the brake system, contaminated brake fluid, and a seized caliper.

Squealing While Braking

Have you ever heard a squealing, screeching sound coming from your brakes when you stop? That is a big sign you need new brakes. If your brakes are squealing, it often indicates that the brake pads have worn down to the point where a small metal tab, called a wear indicator, is exposed. When this tab comes into contact with the brake rotor, it produces a high-pitched squealing sound, serving as a warning that the brake pads need replacement. Squealing brakes could also result from glazed brake pads or debris trapped between the brake pads and rotor.

Shaky Steering Wheel

If your steering wheel shakes when the brakes are applied, that is another sign. One common cause is warped brake rotors, which can develop due to prolonged braking or driving with worn brake pads. When you apply the brakes, the uneven surface of the warped rotors causes the steering wheel to shake or vibrate. Additionally, worn or damaged brake components, such as calipers or brake pads, can also contribute to steering wheel vibrations during braking.

Vehicle Vibrating at High Speeds

Finally, if your vehicle wobbles when you drive at highway speeds, it may be related to the brakes as well. This tends to happen when brake rotors wear unevenly, which can result from prolonged braking or driving with worn brake pads. Warped or damaged brake rotors can cause the vehicle to wobble or vibrate when braking, especially at higher speeds. Additionally, worn suspension components or improperly balanced tires can also contribute to this issue.

Brake Repair Palmer

Demore’s Automotive offers a wide range of brake repair services. We perform:

• Brake pad replacements – If your brake pads are worn too low, we’ll replace them with the appropriate parts, per the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Brake fluid flush and replenishment – We thoroughly flush out old brake fluid, removing contaminants and moisture that can compromise braking efficiency. We then replenish the system with fresh, high-quality brake fluid, helping to maintain proper hydraulic pressure and extend the lifespan of brake components.
• Rotor resurfacing and replacement – Depending on the wear on your rotors, they may need to be replaced. If they are not worn too thin, they may be able to be resurfaced, but if the metal is too thin already, we will need to replace them.

We offer a visual inspection as well as a more in-depth inspection of the braking system which includes wheel removal to fully inspect the system. If need be, only in extreme cases, we also can perform an entire brake system replacement.

We’re Committed to Getting You Back on the Road

With years of experience and a team of CTI-trained technicians, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing brake issues promptly and effectively. We understand the importance of transparent communication and personalized service. Our knowledgeable staff takes the time to explain brake issues in simple terms, providing clear cost estimates and recommendations tailored to each customer’s needs. We strive to minimize downtime and inconvenience for our clients by offering timely and efficient brake repairs, but in the event your vehicle needs more extensive repairs, we can provide you with a loaner car or local shuttle service at no additional cost.

Schedule a Visit to Our Palmer, MA, Shop for Brake Repair

For all your vehicle repair and service needs, including top-notch brake repair, visit Demore’s Automotive in Palmer MA, or give us a call to schedule an appointment today!