promufflerandbrake

Stopping "Brake" Downs

btoole@oneeteam.com (Brian Toole) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 02:59:28 GMT

Stopping "Brake" Downs (Brake Pad Replacement)

If someone tells you to put the brakes on something, you know it means stop. And stopping is one of the most important safety maneuvers you can do in any vehicle. That means your brakes have to work properly.

Let's face it. You stop dozens of times every time you drive. And over time, that takes its toll on your brakes. Friction is what stops your vehicle. Most newer vehicles have disc brakes, and the parts that wear out the fastest are those that rub against each other every time you stop, the rotors and the pads.

The rotors are discs that rotate with the wheels, and the pads are removable surfaces that make contact with the rotors to slow or stop your vehicle. Bits of both wear off each time you stop, and when enough of either (or both) lose too much material, your brakes become unable to safely slow or stop your vehicle.

The pads usually are the parts that wear out first. Signs that your brakes might be getting worn are:

• You hear grinding, squeaking, or clicking when you apply them

• It takes a longer distance to stop

• Your pedal vibrates when you brake

• The front of your vehicle pulls to one side when you brake

If you notice any of these, bring your car to us so we can have a technician inspect your brakes. Most brake pads have a wear indicator that indicates it's time they should be replaced. The technician who is checking things out will also look at your rotors for wear, as well as other brake system components.

With regular inspections and maintenance, you'll be sure that when you need to stop, your vehicle will be up to the task.

Contact Pro Muffler & Brake Shop today to have your brakes inspected!

269.926.2006 | promufflerbrake@gmail.com

Bad Vibrations

btoole@oneeteam.com (Brian Toole) — Tue, 15 Oct 2024 13:58:24 GMT

Bad Vibrations (Brake Rotor Replacement)

If you’ve ever stepped on your brake pedal and felt your vehicle vibrate, that’s a signal that you shouldn’t ignore. A pulsating brake pedal is a sign that something is wrong. Braking action should be smooth, sure, and quiet, not shaky and noisy.

Most newer vehicles have disc brakes , called that because they have a round, flat disc connected to each wheel. Those discs are the rotors . Other parts called brake pads are squeezed against those discs when you press on the brake pedal.

Remember that vibration we mentioned? That can be caused by the rotor not having a straight, true surface. Rotors can heat up from friction and create high spots (some refer to this as warping). They can become thinner from constant wear. Rotors can rust from the elements they’re exposed to, such as rain, snow ice, and salt. They can get grooves in them from so many contacts with the pads.

The signs of worn rotors are vibrations, grooves on the rotor (which you can see sometimes through open spots in the wheel) noise such as squealing or scraping when you brake, and increased stopping distance.

While it used to be common for rotors to be machined (shaved down to restore their flat surface), newer vehicles have thinner rotors , so your service adviser may suggest you replace rotors when they start showing signs of significant wear. Unfortunately, manufacturers are on a quest to reduce the weight of vehicles, and rotors are one area where they do this. Because rotors are now coming thinner, it is unlikely that we can turn them on our brake lathe. (Seen above.) More often than not, they have to be replaced with new ones.

Brakes are important safety equipment for every vehicle. They enhance your control while driving, so it’s important that they be regularly inspected and maintained. A good time is when you have your tires rotated. A technician can then look at all components of your brakes and recommend any service you may need to keep your brakes in top shape.

Contact Pro Muffler & Brake Shop today to have your brakes inspected!

269.926.2006 | promufflerbrake@gmail.com

What it means to be NAPA Gold Certified

btoole@oneeteam.com (Brian Toole) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 01:46:18 GMT

WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN YOUR AUTO REPAIR SHOP IS NAPA GOLD CERTIFIED?

NAPA Gold Certified is a distinction given to certain auto repair shops that are affiliated with the National Automotive Parts Association (NAPA). Being " NAPA Gold Certified " can mean a few key things for the auto repair shop, as well as for its customers:

1. **High Standards of Service**: To become NAPA Gold Certified , a shop generally must meet or exceed certain standards of service quality and professionalism set by NAPA. This may include technician training, facility cleanliness, and customer service standards.

2. **Use of Quality Parts**: A NAPA Gold Certified shop typically uses NAPA parts, which are known for their quality. This can be a reassurance for customers that their vehicles are being repaired with reliable components.

3. **Warranty Coverage**: One of the major benefits for consumers is that NAPA Gold Certified shops often offer the NAPA AutoCare Peace of Mind Warranty. This warranty can provide coverage for qualifying repairs and services. The warranty is honored at more than 14,000 locations nationwide, which can be a significant advantage for those who travel or move.

4. **Ongoing Training**: Being NAPA Gold Certified can also indicate that the technicians in the shop receive continuous training and education to keep them up-to-date with the latest automotive repair techniques and technologies.

5. **Commitment to Ethics**: NAPA has a Code of Ethics that their certified shops are expected to uphold, which emphasizes honest and transparent service.

6. **Recognition and Credibility**: Being certified can add to the shop's reputation, making it stand out as a trusted and reliable place for auto repairs.

For customers, choosing a NAPA Gold Certified shop can provide added confidence in the quality of work, the parts used, and the warranty coverage that comes with it. However, as with any certification or endorsement, it's always a good idea to do your research, read reviews, and make an informed decision when choosing an auto repair shop.

And did you know Pro Muffler & Brake Shop is the only NAPA Gold Certified repair shop in the Benton Harbor, St. Joe, Stevensville, Bridgman, and Berrien Springs area!