Brake Service in Birmingham, AL
Ford Brake Service in Birmingham, AL
Our Stivers Ford of Birmingham dealership is your one-stop shop for all brake-related needs. Whether you need a brake inspection, want to replace them entirely, or are looking at resurfacing your rotors, we have the tools and expertise you need.
Taking care of your brakes is essential if you want your vehicle to be as safe as possible. Come by and let our experts get your brakes back in top condition.
How To Tell if You Need New Brakes
If you're wondering if it's time to replace your brake pads, there are a couple of indicators you can watch out for. The most common problems are usually the easiest to spot. If your brakes make a noise when you touch the brake pad, it could be a sign you should get them inspected.
While squealing and squeaking noises might not be the most consequential problems, grinding can be. If your brakes make a grinding sound, it could mean metal is rubbing on metal, and you should bring your car in as quickly as possible. Another common sign to look out for is if your steering wheel wobbles while you brake. This could come from a warped rotor affecting your braking system. At our service center, we can resurface a mildly warped rotor and get it back in working order without a full replacement.
The most obvious sign that you should get your brakes checked is if your vehicle has a brake light or ABS light on the dashboard. Your car has a series of sensors to check fluid levels, brake pads, and more. If one of the lights turns on, there might be a problem somewhere in your braking system. Bring it to us, and we can diagnose and fix the issue quickly.
Types of Brakes
While all brakes share the same goal of slowing your car down, they go about it differently. Disc brakes send their power to brake pads that squeeze a rotor to stop it from spinning. They're the most common brakes in modern cars and work well at slowing your vehicle down gradually. Drum brakes are another common type found in most cars.
Drum brakes use brake shoes pushed by hydraulic power to slow your vehicle down over time. Both brake types work well, and we can replace either one. Hybrid and electric cars have regenerative braking, an efficient method that diverts power back to the electric motor while you drive. It takes the unused kinetic energy the car creates while braking, making it even more efficient.
Certified Ford Brake Services
Brake System Inspection/Diagnosis
Staying on top of your brake's regular maintenance is a great way to optimize your vehicle's performance. We'll inspect each part of your braking system to ensure it's at its best. We offer various repair services to ensure you can brake with confidence no matter the issue.
Each brake appointment begins with an inspection. We examine your braking system piece by piece to see what could be causing a problem. We check fluid levels, inspect your parking brake, and look at the wear and tear your brake pads have accumulated. Once we've found the issue, we can either fix the part or replace it with one of our genuine original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts. While aftermarket parts may be cheaper, OEM components are the only ones guaranteed to fit your car correctly.
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Brake Fluid Exchange
Brake fluid is a vital component of your vehicle's braking system, transferring the stopping force generated by the master cylinder to the brake calipers. These calipers then press the brake pads or linings against the rotors, which are bolted to the wheels, creating the friction necessary to slow down or stop your vehicle. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air, which degrades its hydraulic properties and can lead to a spongy brake pedal or reduced braking performance. This moisture contamination can also cause internal corrosion in brake system components, leading to costly repairs if not addressed. To maintain optimal braking performance and safety, it's important to have your brake fluid exchanged every two to three years, as recommended by most manufacturers. Regular brake fluid maintenance ensures that your brakes remain responsive and effective in all driving conditions.
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Brake Pad Replacement
High-friction brake pads are essential to your vehicle’s braking system, providing the intense friction and resistance needed to slow down or stop your car. These pads are positioned at each wheel and press against the brake rotors, creating the necessary force to reduce the vehicle’s speed. Over time, however, brake pads wear down due to the constant heat and pressure generated during braking, which reduces their effectiveness. For your safety, it’s important to replace the pads before they become too thin, as worn pads can lead to longer stopping distances, reduced braking power, and potential damage to other components like the rotors.
At our service center, we recommend replacing brake pads when their thickness measures between 3-4mm. This ensures your braking system continues to perform optimally, providing you with the stopping power needed to drive safely. Whether you need front, rear, or a full set of brake pads replaced, our certified technicians are here to ensure your brakes function at their best. Regular brake pad inspections and timely replacements are key to maintaining the safety and performance of your vehicle.
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Brake Rotor Resurfacing/Replacement
Resurfacing your rotors can be an excellent way to reuse your old rotors when replacing brake pads. This involves removing some of the rotor's warped surface to create space for the new brake pads. However, it's important to note that resurfacing the rotors can weaken them structurally since we must remove part of the rotor itself.
Rotors can become warped for various reasons. Corrosion, rust, and even heat can all transform your rotor's shape and worsen your driving experience. If your rotor can handle it, resurfacing can be an excellent way to save money on a new rotor and get the most out of your old one.
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Brake Component Repairs
As your vehicle accumulates miles or experiences severe use like stop-and-go driving, towing, or driving in hilly terrain, wear and tear on braking components becomes more likely. This can lead to the need for repairs or replacements of critical parts such as brake lines, hoses, calipers, and the master cylinder, which are essential for the braking system's performance and safety.
Over time, components like brake lines and hoses may develop leaks or corrosion, while calipers can stick or wear down, and the master cylinder may experience leaks that impact braking efficiency. Regular inspections help catch issues early, but as repairs become necessary, our expert technicians are ready to diagnose and fix any braking system problems, ensuring your vehicle stops safely and effectively.
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Brake Service at Stivers Ford of Birmingham
Visit our Stivers Ford of Birmingham dealership for all your brake-related needs in the Birmingham area. Keeping up with brake maintenance is crucial for your safety and that of your passengers every time you drive. Explore our standard auto brake service, which includes rotor replacement, resurfacing, salvaging, and the installation of new brake pads or shoes.
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