Understanding everything about a vehicle is a challenge for even the most experience automotive experts - let alone the majority of average car owners. As such we are happy to be able to use our website as a means to answer some commonly asked questions about auto repair and service including service tips that can extend the life of your vehicle. If you do not see an answer to your question feel free to contact us as we will be happy to provide an answer to any vehicle service & repair question you may have.
Brake vibration is where a shaking motion occurs when the brakes in a car or other vehicle are deployed. This can vary from a slight shaking to a quite severe shuddering, depending on the severity of the condition. It can also be known as rotor shimmying or brake pulsation.
Today’s vehicles are staying on the road much longer. The square cut seal in the caliper can become stiff and prevent the piston’s return. While no leaks are visible, this condition keeps the piston from retracting and causes the friction material to drag. The buildup of friction material on the rotor face then creates pulsations that would not have otherwise occurred.
Like golf club manufacturers, brake pad manufacturers are always looking for new space age materials to improve their products. These materials names may be throw around like buzzwords in a boardroom, but knowing what these materials can do can help you to make a more informed decision.
Premature ABS applications are mostly caused by speed sensor issues. Rust build up under the speed sensors is one common cause as seen on General Motors light-duty trucks. The speed sensor output voltage drops as it moves away from the tone wheel and is interpreted as a slipping wheel. Then as it moves a little further, an ABS variable voltage speed sensor code can be set.
Most automobile tires have a built-in tread wear indicator in the tread area of the tire. This wear indicator will show when there are 2/32" remaining on the tread. Depending on your driving habits or conditions you should replace the tire no later than when the wear indicator is visible. Consult a tire professional when tires show signs of wear.
To maintain your car's original ride and handling, make sure the aspect ratio of your new tires matches the ratio listed on your car's original tires or on the placard on the door edge, fuel filler door, glove box or visor. The aspect ratio is the ratio of the height to the width of the tire. If looking at the tire, find the two numbers listed before the letter "R." They designate the aspect ratio. For instance, a tire with the size designation P215/65R15 has an aspect ratio of 65--meaning the tire is 65 percent higher than it is wide. You thus want "65-series" tires.
Wear problems could have a variety of causes. The problem could be caused by over or under inflation of the tire, mechanical problems or the need for an alignment (caster, camber or toe).
Having your tires rotated at regular intervals will help to ensure you receive the maximum mileage from your tires. Most tire manufacturers recommend you have your tires rotated at least every 7,000 mph.