Use Alderman Automotive for Your Brake Repair and Maintenance

Modern vehicles have many safety systems, but no safety feature is more fundamental than the brake system. At the first sign of trouble, our right foot immediately heads to the brake pedal and probably uses it. Alderman Automotive wants to remind everyone that brake systems depend on friction (even hybrids use friction for emergency braking), and by definition, friction means wear. Modern brakes are also complex systems that include power assistance and anti-lock brake system sensors and processing modules, pumps, valves, and other components to activate each brake individually. A lot is going on, and if you suspect something may not work as it should, we invite you to have the Alderman Automotive Service Department take care of it.  

The Alderman Automotive facility was previously a Ford dealer, and Alderman has retained all of its service capabilities and expanded both the equipment and personnel to cover any vehicle brand. Thus, we have the staff and technologies that can take care of all your brake, maintenance, repair, and replacement needs. We can do it with the cost benefits of being an independent service provider. Among the brake issues that we can repair or inspect are:

• Brake Pad & Shoe Replacement—There are two warning signs. The first is a faint, high-pitched sound you hear when driving that ceases when you apply the brakes. This is a friction-based warning system that tells you that your pads are nearing the end of their life. Squealing brakes can often indicate brake pad issues. When brake pads are thoroughly worn, a harsh metal-on-metal grinding noise occurs during braking, which will quickly damage your rotor or drum. Although experienced individuals may attempt home repairs, it’s best to consult an auto repair professional promptly if you have brake concerns. 

• Caliper Replacement—The brake caliper houses brake pads and clamps around the rotor to apply pressure during braking. Occasionally, these calipers can be knocked out of alignment, causing diminished and uneven braking ability

• Resurface Rotors—The friction with brake pads over time creates grooves and cracks in your brake rotors, diminishing braking ability and creating an uneven wobbling feel during braking. Alderman can resurface the rotor surface to a smooth, “like-new” condition, bring the brakes back to their original performance. 

• Anti-Lock Brake System—The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) ensures your wheels keep rotating during braking, preventing skidding and providing better control. As mentioned, the system has many components; over time, some may break down. This will usually cause your ABS dash light to illuminate. If this light appears, bring your vehicle to Alderman Automotive for repair. 

• Brake Fluid Flushes—Though sealed as best as possible, brake fluid can eventually absorb moisture from the air. Over time, this can diminish brake effectiveness and become corrosive, potentially harming the system. Regular brake fluid flushes are vital to ensure fresh fluid is used in your vehicle. 

• Brake Hoses—A brake hose carries pressurized brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes. Over time, the hose can dry, become brittle, and eventually leak, ultimately leading to brake failure. This isn’t typical during a vehicle’s early life, but any signs of cracking or wear should prompt immediate replacement. 

Other signs that you need to have your brakes looked at include: 

• A vibrating feeling during braking 
• Braking that causes the vehicle to pull to one side 
• Brakes are emitting a burning smell when used 
• Braking fluid under the vehicle or in the engine bay 

All of these indicate a system that needs to be looked at, and Alderman Automotive has the tools and staff to diagnose it correctly. The next time you know or suspect you have a braking issue, arrange to take your car to Alderman Automotive.