BRAKES & BRAKE REPAIR

Given that a vehicle's brakes are one of the most crucial safety components, ensuring the safety of our customers is our top priority. Whether your brake pads indicate the need for replacement, your brake light is on, or you feel uneasy about your vehicle's deceleration, reach out to us at 843-760-1125 or visit our North Charleston location. We're dedicated to promptly diagnosing the safety and reliability of your braking system.

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 Paul's Car Care Center 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 Paul's Car Care Center 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 Paul's Car Care Center in North Charleston at your earliest convenience for assistance.

Resurface Rotors
In a disc brake system, rotors attach to your vehicle's wheels. The friction with brake pads over time creates grooves and cracks. The process of resurfacing restores rotors to a "like-new" condition, reducing noise and wobbling. At Paul's Car Care Center, we inspect your rotors thoroughly and recommend the best course of action.

FAQs About Brakes

What percent of brake pad life is 3mm?

A new brake pad typically measures about 8 to 12 mm. At 3 mm thickness, your brake pads are nearing the end of their service life, having covered approximately 40,000 miles. It's advisable to replace them soon to maintain optimal braking performance.

Why is my dashboard brake light on?

When the brake light on your dashboard lights up, it's a sign to check your brakes. It could indicate the need for routine maintenance or a potential issue. Visit Paul's Car Care Center for a quick diagnosis and expert resolution.

Why are my brakes squeaking?

Squeaking from your brakes can be caused by a variety of factors, including debris like stones caught in the caliper, or it may indicate that the brake pads are wearing thin.

Why are my brakes making a grinding noise?

A grinding noise from your brakes often means urgent maintenance is needed. This sound can indicate that the brake pads have worn down completely, causing metal-to-metal contact that can damage your rotors.

What is the 30-30-30 rule for brakes?

The 30-30-30 rule for new brakes involves making 30 gradual stops from 30 mph with each stop followed by a 30-second cooling period. This technique helps in properly bedding the brake pads and avoiding overheating.

Why are my brakes vibrating?

Vibration during braking is commonly due to uneven rotor surfaces. Misshapen rotors can cause the car to shake when the brakes are applied. Resurfacing or replacing the rotors at Paul's Car Care Center can correct this issue and restore smooth braking.

How do I know if my car is leaking brake fluid?

A leak in your brake fluid is serious, as it reduces the effectiveness of your brakes. Signs include a decrease in braking power and a longer stopping distance. If you suspect a brake fluid leak, it's critical to have your car inspected by professionals at Paul's Car Care Center immediately.

Why is my car pulling to one side when I am braking?

If your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, this could be due to an issue with a brake hose or a caliper problem causing uneven braking. Such issues need immediate inspection to ensure safe driving.

Why are my brakes making a burning smell?

A burning smell from your brakes could indicate they are overheating. If you notice this along with smoke from the wheels, it's important to pull over safely and check if the brakes have cooled. Continuous driving could lead to further damage.

What are the 3 signs that brake pads are worn?

Common indicators that it's time to replace your brake pads include hearing squeaking or grinding noises and seeing the brake warning light on your dashboard.

What are the 3 types of brake pads?

The three primary types of brake pads used today are non-asbestos organic, ceramic, and semi-metallic. Each type has different characteristics suited to different driving needs and vehicle types.