Whether you're in need of swift brake maintenance or repair services, you can rely on The Plains Tire & Auto for cost-effective solutions. Contact us at 540-253-5251 or visit our The Plains location for a comprehensive vehicle inspection, affordable recommendations, and efficient repairs to ensure optimal performance. To us, safety is paramount, so if you have any doubts about your brakes, reach out to us immediately!
Anti-Lock Brake System
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) ensures your wheels keep rotating during braking, preventing skidding and providing better control. If your ABS light illuminates, visit The Plains Tire & Auto for a diagnosis and professional repair.
Brake Fluid Flushes
Brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air over time, diminishing brake effectiveness and becoming corrosive, potentially harming the system. Regular brake fluid flushes are vital to ensure fresh fluid usage in your vehicle. Consult our technicians at The Plains Tire & Auto to determine the right time for a brake fluid flush.
Brake Hoses
A brake hose carries pressurized brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes. A damaged hose can lead to delayed or weak braking, and a leak may result in brake failure. While the need for a replacement brake hose isn't common, any signs of cracking or wear should prompt immediate replacement.
Brake Pad & Shoe Replacement
Squealing brakes often indicate brake pad issues. When brake pads deteriorate completely, a harsh metal-on-metal grinding noise occurs during braking, indicating potential rotor or drum damage. Although experienced individuals may attempt home repairs, if you have brake concerns, it's best to consult an auto repair professional promptly.
Caliper Replacement
The brake caliper houses brake pads and clamps around the rotor to apply pressure during braking. Caliper problems can cause uneven braking, leading to skidding during braking and loss of control in adverse weather conditions. Contact The Plains Tire & Auto in The Plains at your earliest convenience for assistance.
FAQs About Brakes
Why are my brakes making a grinding noise?
A grinding sound from your brakes often signals that they're severely worn and require immediate attention. This noise typically means the brake pads have worn down to the rotors.
Why are my brakes squeaking?
Squeaking brakes can result from small stones or debris caught in the pads, or it may indicate that the pads are wearing thin. It's a sign that your brakes might need inspection or replacement.
Why are my brakes making a burning smell?
A burning smell from your brakes can occur if they overheat from excessive use. If you notice a chemical odor or smoke, pull over safely and allow the brakes to cool to avoid further damage.
Why are my brakes vibrating?
Vibration when braking usually points to an issue with uneven rotor surfaces. Over time, rotors can wear unevenly, causing vibrations through the steering wheel when you apply the brakes.
How do I know if my car is leaking brake fluid?
A decrease in braking performance or a spongy feel in the brake pedal could indicate a brake fluid leak. It's critical to address any brake fluid leaks immediately to maintain vehicle safety.
Why is my dashboard brake light on?
The brake light on your dashboard may indicate it's time for brake service or signal an issue. Visit The Plains Tire & Auto for a precise diagnosis and prompt resolution.
What are the 3 signs that brake pads are worn?
Common signs of worn brake pads include squeaking noises, grinding sounds, and the brake warning light illuminating on your dashboard.
What is the 30-30-30 rule for brakes?
The 30-30-30 rule suggests breaking in new brake pads with 30 gentle stops from 30 mph, allowing 30 seconds between each to prevent overheating and to help the pads cure properly.
What percent of brake pad life is 3mm?
New brake pads typically start at 8 to 12 mm thick. At 3 mm, your brake pads are near the end of their lifespan, having covered about 40,000 miles. It's advisable to replace them soon to maintain braking efficiency.
What are the 3 types of brake pads?
The three primary types of brake pads are non-asbestos organic, ceramic, and semi-metallic. Each type offers different benefits concerning performance, wear, and noise.
Why is my car pulling to one side when I am braking?
If your car veers to one side when braking, it could be due to a stuck caliper or a collapsed brake hose, causing uneven braking pressure. This should be inspected and repaired to ensure safe driving.
To learn more about our Brake services, call us at 540-253-5251 or request a quote by clicking below:
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Partners
What our clients are saying about us
We have established longterm and stable partnerships with various clients thanks to our excellence in solving their automotive needs!
On Monday, March 12th, my husband and I were traveling on I-66 when our low tire alert came on showing a tire was quickly losing air. We got off the highway, hoping to find a gas station and came upon The Plains Tire & Auto. After inspection, the technician told us that the tire could not be repaired and they did not have a tire there that would work. They quickly made phone calls looking for a tire for us. They found one about 1/2 drive each way to get it. Someone went to pick the tire up, brought it back and it was quickly mounted on our car. They even printed out directions for us to travel home from there. I can't say enough good things about everyone we encountered in The Plains. Kind, helpful, understanding to our situation, etc. We will probably never need to visit The Plains Tire & Auto again, but would highly recommend it to anyone. They were a lifesaver to 2 Pittsburghers, a long way from home. Thank-you!
My car died on the interstate a few miles away, and my car was towed here at 4PM on a Friday. They we so fantastic and helpful. They got me right in and got me the information I needed to make decisions quickly. They bent over backwards to ensure I was taken care of. Such great friendly people, and as terrible as it is having car trouble, I am thankful that Brandon and the Plains Auto team were the ones who were able to assist me.
