annarborautobrakerepair

Can A Seized Brake Caliper Do That?

2025-01-18T06:12:20Z

What To Look For When Your Vehicle Pulls To The Side Of The Road When Braking?

There I was driving like I always do to work. It happened to me so slowly, I almost hadn’t noticed it. Just a slight movement to the right side of the road as I applied my truck brakes. Oh, I guess I was thinking it was perhaps my steering becoming less reliable, or perhaps my steering bushings coming to the end of their life. But it was always “just slightly there” each time I applied my brakes, and I admit that I was getting accustomed to it always being there.

One day I was giving my friend “car junkie friend” Rob a ride across town. I had forgotten how badly my truck faded to the right-hand side of the road when I applied the brakes. But now, with Rob in the passenger seat, a car ahead of us on the highway I-94 put on it’s brakes and came to a very sudden stop. Applying my truck brakes at 70 miles per hour seemed to really accentuate how badly my truck was pulling to the right, much more than it had on urban streets around Ann Arbor. This time, it was a serious veer toward the right-hand side of the highway. Fortunately, I was able to lessen the pressure with which I had pushed on the brake pedal and so we stopped without going into the ditch on the right-hand side of the road. Rob suggested that I get my brakes inspected for proper working.

Boy, was Rob right. A quick trip to Ann Arbor Auto Brake Repair and I discovered that my truck had a seized brake caliper , which caused my truck to pull to the right side of the road while braking. The mechanic also pointed out to me, that the burning smell I detected was also connected to the same seized brake caliper, as it was also causing the brake pads to wear prematurely due to full engagement with the brake rotor during driving. I was also cautioned that the brake rotor should also be checked to ensure that the braking would be even and expected, rather than pulsing and unexpected when this repair was completed.

I cannot tell you the peace that I felt when that brake caliper was fixed and my vehicle began to brake properly, without pulling to the right-hand side of the road. I recommend that mechanics at Ann Arbor Auto Brake Repairs . Having these talented individuals working on your vehicle is worth your effort.

Five Ways To Lower Auto Repair Costs

2024-12-07T00:30:18Z

Understanding Auto Repair Costs: Choosing the Right Shop

Auto repair costs have been rising steadily, largely due to the incorporation of computers in nearly every vehicle component. This trend has elevated the level of technical expertise required from mechanics, moving beyond traditional wrenching and assembly skills. As a result, repair costs for both labor and parts have climbed, yet many of these expensive repairs need not be as costly as they seem.

In today's fast-paced society, convenience often takes precedence, leading many drivers to postpone necessary auto and brake-related repairs because of high repair costs. According to Kevin Bressler from Samaritan Car Care Clinic in Covington, KY, many people overlook independent repair shops in favor of the “all done at one shop” feel of vehicle dealerships. Dealerships are often perceived as more knowledgeable, skilled, and equipped with original manufacturer parts and terrific customer service. The appealing amenities at a dealership —like Wi-Fi, spotless interiors, freshly brewed coffee, and even baked goods—can make the dealership choice attractive for customers needing automotive/brake repairs. However, the price tag that comes with such conveniences can be daunting, causing essential auto maintenance visits and auto repairs to be pushed off until the need becomes critical.

Fortunately, independent auto/brake repair shops often provide lower rates without sacrificing quality. These mechanics are typically very skilled and efficient at their job, yet many customers hesitate to choose this route. The abundance of options can make finding the right auto and brake repair shop overwhelming, as people fear making a poor choice that could lead to subpar work or even greater total costs than can be obtained at a dealership.

When we do consider independent auto/brake repair shops, we may also rely on voice search services like Siri, which make their recommendations off of businesses that have heavily advertised on Google or other Internet search engines. Unfortunately, this extra marketing cost ultimately gets passed on to the customer in higher repair costs and ignores the great service that many smaller shops just don’t have the income to use to buy expensive advertising.

So, if you’re open to selecting an independent auto/brake care shop and want to identify the best option based on price and service, here are some steps to follow:

1) Contact Local Shops: Call or visit a few auto or brake repair shops in your area to request estimates for your needed auto/brake repairs.

2) Compare Estimates: Gather quotes from at least two more shops to gain a better understanding of the pricing landscape.

3) Watch for Extras: Stay vigilant for any unexpected "add-ons" in the quotes that some shops may charge but others do not.

4) Request a Warranty: Ensure you obtain a written warranty for both parts and labor. This guarantees that repairs will be performed correctly and provides reassurance that any issues will be addressed without additional charges.

5) Address Small Repairs Promptly: Don’t delay minor repairs; small issues can escalate over time, leading to larger, more costly problems down the line.

If you’re new to the concept of finding an independent auto/brake repair shop, starting with recommendations can be beneficial. Ask family, friends or neighbors for their trusted mechanics and auto/brake repair shops. You can also conduct a Google search to locate nearby auto repair shops. Most internet searches will begin or feature “sponsored” (big advertising/bigger cost) repair shops, followed by a map with nearby auto/brake repair shops, and then give a long list of auto/brake repair shops ranked by their knowledge and skills in performing the automotive/brake repairs you are seeking, verified by customer feedback.

Once you’ve identified three independent auto or brake repair shops, contact each to obtain estimates. It’s advisable to visit the shop with the lowest quote to gauge your comfort level with their service and mechanics. By following these steps, you can make an informed decision while supporting local businesses and the families that rely on them. Happy driving!

Adapted from the video blog: 5 ways to lower your auto repair costs | Watch

DIY Brakes - Not My Thing!

2024-11-05T02:52:46Z

We Are All Good At "Our Thing"! Hire Brake Experts Who Are Good At Their Thing!

On my way home from work today, my car was making a terrible noise. After contemplating getting rid of it or having it fixed, I decided I would take my first stab at analyzing and fixing my car trouble. The sound was definitely coming from my front wheel, and so I felt I should start there. These are the lessons I learned from my first DIY car repair.

Diagnosing the brake problem

First, I attempted to take off the front wheel. Now, I had injured my wrist earlier in the week, and in my exertion, I nearly stripped the lug nuts trying to turn them with the tire iron. Eventually, I was able to take the front wheel off. Next, I investigated the brakes. The caliper was a challenge since I knew that there hadn’t been any brake service on this car for almost four years. Initially, when I took the outside brake pad off, it looked fine. I ran my hand along the rotor, and it felt smooth.

So, at this point, everything looked fine. But then the inside brake pad or what little was left of it fell out from behind the rotor. With no evidence of a pad on this piece of rust, I decided to check the back of the rotor. It felt jagged and rough and was clear to see that this was the source of my vehicle's noisy “wheel” problem.

I proceeded to remove the rotor but hurt myself more while doing so. Struggling with one bolt, I slammed the back of my arm into my fender, leaving a nice bruise. When I finally had the rotor in my hand, I saw the back—rusty, ugly, and damaged.

Out of sight

So why do I share this? Sometimes when we drive our cars, the feel and the sounds of the car convince us that our car is in pretty good shape. But this should remind us to look beyond the shiny outside or at the pieces of the car that are easy to reach. Pulling apart the internal parts of a broken module or finding what has been missed in the routine maintenance log in the owner's manual, can be quite illustrative as to the actual value of the car that you are driving.

Don’t ignore problems

A car is a machine that requires regular maintenance or it could cost you your life. What would happen if I ignored the sound and lost all brake power on the highway or on a narrow road? I could try to use the emergency brake, but would that guarantee my protection from an accident if I was moving at 60 miles an hour? If I had ignored the sound my brakes were making, would I not have lacked wisdom?

Don't be afraid to get the help you need

Car repair takes education, hard work, diligent attention to detail, and sometimes a few bruises and scrapes. It is worth it to have a car that is finely tuned and adjusted both inside and out. I have also learned a lot about the complexity of the brake systems, and that there are many parts of a brake system that act together to cause a car to slow down and stop efficiently. But, all my fruitless exertions caused me to realized that at some point, it made more sense to work with a professional brake shop in my town. I found Ann Arbor Auto Brake Repair shop and found them to be caring, courteous, and respectful, as well as helpful in my time of need. I could not have found a better team to help my car get back on the road again.

Fastest Brake Repair And Service In Ann Arbor, MI

2024-11-02T16:31:39Z

The Pitfalls of a Fast Brake Job: Why Speed Can Compromise Safety

In the world of auto repair, the promise of a speedy service can be tempting. Many shops boast quick turnaround times for brake jobs, claiming they can have you back on the road in no time. However, rushing through a brake change can lead to serious safety issues down the line.

A Cautionary Tale from Jamal

Last year, a customer of ours named Jamal heard about a local shop that advertised "quick brake service". He decided to give them a try and was in and out in just under an hour. For a moment, everything (brake-wise) seemed perfect. His car felt fine and operated as expected, and he appreciated not having to wait long. But just a few weeks later, Jamal began to notice a troubling sound whenever he applied the brakes. The once smooth stopping power turned into a jarring experience.

Concerned, Jamal returned to their shop, only to discover that the quick service he received had come at a cost. The mechanic revealed that the brake pads had been improperly installed, and the rotors were wearing unevenly. What seemed like an efficient job had left Jamal with even more costly repairs and a potential safety hazard.

The Allure of Speed

While it might be satisfying to think that a quick brake job saves time and money, it often leads to far worse outcomes. Shops that prioritize speedy service over thoroughness may cut corners, overlooking essential steps in the brake replacement process. This can lead to mistakes that won't be immediately evident but will eventually surface, resulting in unsafe driving conditions.

The Dangers of a Hasty Approach

In our fast-paced world, the pressure to complete tasks quickly can overshadow the need for quality. When auto repair teams rush through brake jobs, the risks increase significantly. Common mistakes can include:

Improper Installation: Brake components that aren’t correctly fitted can lead to malfunction. Fasteners that are not properly secured cannot guarantee proper braking performance.
Neglected Safety Checks: Skipping inspections for related parts like rotors or calipers can mean hidden issues go unnoticed.
Subpar Materials: In the rush to finish, cheaper parts may be used, compromising overall performance and safety.

Quality Takes The Right Amount Of Time

The reality is that quality results require time and attention. Auto repair is no exception. When a shop operates at a frenetic pace, it not only jeopardizes the safety of the vehicle but also frustrates customers like Jamal, who find themselves having to deal with the fallout of a rushed job.

To improve outcomes, both customers and repair shops need to prioritize quality over speed. Here are a few strategies:

Choose Experience Over Expediency: Look for shops with a reputation for thorough, quality service rather than those promising the quickest turnaround.
Ask Questions: Inquire about the brake job process, and don’t hesitate to ask for clarification on the parts used and the work being done.
Be Patient: Understand that a comprehensive brake job may take longer but will ensure your vehicle operates safely.

The Bottom Line

When it comes to brake service, remember that while a speedy job might seem convenient, it can also lead to serious consequences down the road. Just like you wouldn’t want a surgeon to rush through a critical surgical procedure, the same goes for your car’s brakes. Prioritizing thoroughness and safety over speed will not only protect you on the road but will also save you from costly repairs in the future. Choose wisely, and take the time to ensure your vehicle’s safety isn’t compromised by the allure of a quick fix. Ann Arbor Auto Brake Repair will repair and maintain your vehicle brakes the right way, and at an efficient pace. We look forward to making your day!

How Much Should A Brake Job Cost?

2024-10-20T07:03:48Z

Why Is A Less Expensive Brake Change More Costly?

Getting a brake change service done correctly is vital for the safety and functionality of your vehicle. While opting for an inexpensive brake service might seem appealing, it often means that not all components of your brake system are being properly serviced. Many companies may charge less than $100, typically only replacing brake pads without addressing critical elements like calipers and rotors. A friend of mine made this mistake when he chose a budget brake service, thinking he was saving money. Just weeks later, he experienced a brake failure when he had to stop suddenly, and nearly caused a two car collision.

Calipers play a crucial role in effective braking performance. If new pads aren't installed correctly, allowing them to slide smoothly on caliper guides, it can lead to wheel overheating and premature pad failure. Furthermore, failing to grind a smooth finish on existing rotors or neglecting to replace worn rotors can exacerbate braking issues. This oversight can lead to faster brake pad wear and necessitate another brake repair service appointment sooner than expected, ultimately costing you more in the long run.

Investing in correct brake repairs ensures that all components are thoroughly inspected and serviced, enhancing your vehicle's safety. How much should a brake replacement cost? Skimping on brake parts or choosing cheap options can jeopardize not only your vehicle’s performance but also your safety on the road. To avoid these pitfalls, come to Ann Arbor Auto Brake Repair for a comprehensive brake service you can trust. Our experienced technicians will ensure that every part of your brake system is properly addressed, giving you peace of mind while driving. Your safety is our top priority—let us help you drive with confidence!

What is the Most Important Thing to Know About the Brakes of My Vehicle?

2024-09-25T15:05:59Z

Why Should I Get My Brakes Checked?

Regularly checking brake performance is crucial for customers to ensure their safety and the longevity of their vehicle. Over time, brake components can wear down due to factors like driving habits, road conditions, and environmental influences, which can significantly impact braking efficiency. By coming in regularly for brake inspections, customers can catch potential issues early , preventing costly repairs down the line and avoiding dangerous situations on the road. For instance, worn brake pads or low fluid levels can compromise your ability to stop effectively, leading to accidents. Regular maintenance not only enhances the reliability of the braking system, providing peace of mind while driving, but also contributes to overall vehicle performance and value.

It is also important to remember that brake issues can develop gradually , making routine inspections and timely diagnosis essential. A professional brake inspection can identify problems before they escalate , ensuring that you remain safe on the road. Ignoring brake maintenance can result in decreased braking power and increased stopping distances, putting you and your passengers at risk. Be sure to listen to and detect any sound or any new sensations that your vehicle may make when the brakes are applied. Prioritizing brake checks is an essential aspect of responsible vehicle ownership and helps you ensure the safety of both the driver (perhaps that is you) and others on the road. Don’t wait until it’s too late—come to Ann Arbor Auto Brake Repair for expert brake inspections and diagnosis today! Your safety is our top priority, and we're here to help keep your vehicle in peak condition.