As a driver, there’s nothing more frustrating than having to constantly replace your brakes. Not only is it a costly inconvenience, but it can also be a safety hazard if your brakes aren’t in top condition. Fortunately, there are a few simple driving habits that can help extend the life of your brakes and keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
In this blog, we’ll be sharing nine useful driving tips that will help you get the most out of your brakes. From the way you brake to the way you maintain your car, these tips will help you save money and help you stay safe on the road. So, if you’re ready to make the most of your brakes, keep reading!
- Use your brakes sparingly: This may seem like a no-brainer, but many drivers unnecessarily ride their brake or press brake too hard, causing unnecessary wear and tear on their brakes. By being more conscious of your braking habits, you can extend the life of your brakes significantly. One way to do this is to anticipate stops and slowdowns in traffic and coast to a stop rather than braking hard. This allows your brakes to cool off and reduces the overall strain on them. You can also try to avoid sudden stops, as these can put a lot of pressure on your brakes and cause them to wear out faster.
- Use pulse braking: This involves rapidly applying and releasing the brakes in quick succession, rather than pressing down on the brake pedal continuously. The reason this technique is effective is that it helps to dissipate heat build-up in the brake system. When you continuously press down on the brake pedal, the brake pads and rotors can become extremely hot, which can cause them to wear out more quickly. By pulsing the brakes, you allow the brake system to cool down slightly in between applications, which can help to extend the life of your brakes. This technique is especially useful in situations where you need to brake frequently, such as when driving in heavy traffic or when going down a steep hill.
- Limit brake use in wet or slippery conditions: Drivers should be mindful of the conditions of the road and adjust their driving habits accordingly. When the roads are wet or slippery, it can be more difficult for a vehicle to come to a stop, which means that the brakes are going to have to work harder. This can lead to premature wear and tear on the brakes, ultimately shortening their lifespan. One way to limit brake use in wet or slippery conditions is to reduce your speed. This will give you more time to react to any potential hazards or obstacles on the road, and will also reduce the amount of force that your brakes need to apply to bring your vehicle to a stop.
- Avoid driving on rough roads: Driving on rough roads can cause your brakes to wear down faster due to the increased strain on the system. When you drive on a smooth road, the brakes have to work less hard to slow down or stop the vehicle. However, when you drive on a rough road, the brakes have to work harder to overcome the bumps and potholes. This added strain can cause the brake pads to wear down faster and require replacement sooner. In addition to shortening the life of your brakes, driving on rough roads can also be dangerous. The bumps and potholes can cause your vehicle to lose control or become unstable, increasing the risk of an accident.
- Keep your brakes clean: While this may seem like a simple and obvious tip, it can make a significant impact on the overall performance and longevity of your brakes. Dirt and debris can easily accumulate on your brakes, especially if you frequently drive on dirt roads or through areas with a lot of construction. This build-up can cause your brakes to wear down more quickly and reduce their overall effectiveness. By regularly cleaning your brakes, you can help to prevent this build-up and ensure that your brakes can perform at their best.
- Check your brake fluid levels: Brake fluid is the lifeblood of your braking system, and it is essential for proper braking performance. If the fluid levels are too low, your brakes may not work as efficiently and could even fail. On the other hand, if the levels are too high, it can cause the brakes to become oversensitive and result in premature wear and tear. To check your brake fluid levels, you will need to locate the brake fluid reservoir, which is typically located near the front of the vehicle, near the firewall. Once you have found the reservoir, open the cap and visually check the fluid level.
- Avoid dragging your brakes: When driving, it is important to avoid dragging your brakes, as this can significantly decrease the life of your brakes. Dragging your brakes refers to when you keep your foot on the brake pedal while driving, rather than releasing it and allowing the vehicle to coast. This practice puts unnecessary wear and tear on your brakes, causing them to wear out more quickly. One way to avoid dragging your brakes is to practice good driving habits, such as maintaining a safe following distance and anticipating stops. This allows you to release your brakes to a stop, rather than constantly pressing down on the brake pedal.
- Use your brakes in conjunction with downshifting: This involves shifting your car into a lower gear as you approach a stop or a slow-moving vehicle in front of you. By downshifting, you are effectively using the engine’s natural braking power to slow the vehicle down, rather than relying solely on the brakes. This can help reduce the wear and tear on your brakes and extend their lifespan. Using your brakes in conjunction with downshifting is a simple and effective way to save money on brake repairs and extend the life of your brakes. It’s a technique that is often used by professional drivers and race car drivers, as it allows them to slow down quickly and safely without overusing their brakes.
- Use your brake pads wisely: If you have worn-out brake pads, it’s time to replace them. But if your brake pads still have some life left in them, you can extend their lifespan by using them wisely. Avoid using your brakes when you’re driving downhill or when you’re driving on a wet road. These situations can cause your brake pads to wear out faster. There are several ways to use brake pads wisely, which can help extend their life and save money on replacements. One way is to avoid excessive braking, especially when driving at high speeds. This means using the brakes less frequently, and instead relying on other methods of slowing down such as coasting or downshifting.
Conclusion
Proper care and maintenance of your brakes are crucial for ensuring safe driving and preventing costly repairs. By following the 9 useful driving tips outlined in this blog, you can extend the life of your brakes and save yourself time and money. Remember to avoid hard braking and sudden stops, take care when driving in wet or slippery conditions, and avoid overloading your vehicle. Be sure to regularly check your brake fluid levels and have your brakes inspected by a professional mechanic. By following these tips and taking good care of your brakes, you can keep your vehicle running smoothly and safely for longer.
