Richmond Auto Clinic - Richmond, BC, Canada - Auto Repair, Service, Air Care, Inspections

1) Inspecting all the mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical components in both the front and rear brakes (calipers, caliper hardware, wheel cylinder, drum hardware, parking brake and brake pad wear sensors).

2) Replacing the front and rear pads or shoes (if necessary).

3) Inspecting or replacing brake rotors or discs. Brake rotors require a clean, smooth, flat surface , otherwise brake performance will suffer. A rough surface will accelerate pad wear and increase the risk of noise. An uneven surface or variations in rotor thickness can cause vibrations, noise and annoying brake pedal pulsations. Brakes drums that have grooves or any kind of damage should be replaced immediately.

4) Inspecting wheel bearings (repacking on older vehicles). Lubricating all critical areas such as caliper slides and shoe pads with moly-based high temperature brake grease.

5) Check and adjust the parking brake if necessary.

6) Checking the level and condition of the brake fluid (changing the fluid is recommended to get rid of moisture contamination). The type of brake fluid required will depend on the vehicle application. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. Bleeding all the brake lines to remove trapped air. Inspecting the entire system for leaks (hoses, lines, wheel cylinders, calipers and master cylinder). Brake hoses in today's brake systems may have to withstand pressure of up to 2,500 psi so make sure there are no cracks, bulges, or damage to the hoses. Calipers and wheel cylinders should be checked for leaks, severe corrosion or damage, and rebuilt or replaced if a problem is found. If a master cylinder is leaking externally or internally (pedal slowly sinks to floor), it must be rebuilt or replaced. Rebuilding aluminum master cylinders is not recommended.

7) Inspect the brake pad wear sensor on the pad for cracks or damage. If the warning light is on inside the car prior to inspection it should be replaced.

8) Checking the ABS system , if applicable, (ie:no warning light or trouble codes). Making sure the pedal is firm, the brakes operate properly, quietly and provide safe stopping power once the job is complete.