Brakes

We Know Brakes

Brake Pads & Rotors

When it comes to maintaining automobiles, there are important parts, and there are crucial parts. Brake pads are among the most crucial of the crucial components that are considered normal wear items, since they create the friction that helps stop your car when they are pressed against the brake disc (also called the brake rotor) or, on some cars, the brake drum that rotates with the wheel. It is in every driver’s interests—not to mention the interests of their passengers and fellow motorists—that their brake pads always function properly and that they are replaced before they lose effectiveness. But when should you replace the pads? We take the guess work and mystery out of brake work. We offer brake inspections, maintenance and replacement of these crucial components without the hassle and outrageous pricing of the so called specialty shops.

ABS Brakes Diagnostics & Repair

One of the greatest achievements in automotive history was the invention of anti-lock brake systems (ABS), providing drivers with the ability to control a vehicle during less than optimal vehicle braking conditions.

The purpose of anti-lock systems is simple: prevent wheel lock-up and loss of vehicle control during braking. There are two types in use: four-wheel ABS, which can control braking at all of the wheels on the vehicle, and two wheel, or rear ABS, which controls braking at the rear wheels only. Improperly diagnosed and or maintained issues can be costly and can compromise this safety system. We have the experience to isolate and properly fix your ABS system issues.

Master Cylinders

A master cylinder is a central component of your braking system. The entire braking process relies on your master cylinder, and without it, your brakes wouldn’t be able to function. Do not put your safety and then ones you love in the hands of so called “Brake Shops”. Our ASE certified mechanics are here to put a stop to your brake problems.

Hydraulics Hoses & Line Repair

A leaking and or busted hydraulic line can compromise an entire system. Transmissions, engines, power steering systems and brakes all rely on lines for fluid/pressure delivery. Leaks need to be accurately found and dealt with in order to prevent costly repairs and or system failures. Do not wish that that spot in your driveway goes away or gets better. Bring your vehicle to Wisener’s Auto Clinic for a diagnostic inspection.

Brake Shoes & Drums

While brake pads and brake shoes perform similar functions, they are not the same thing.
Brake shoes are part of a drum brake system. Brake shoes are crescent-shaped components with a rough friction material on one side. They sit inside of a brake drum. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake shoes are forced outward, pushing against the inside of the brake drum, and slowing down the wheel.

Drum brakes and brake shoes are parts of an older type of braking system and have become less common on modern vehicles. However, some vehicle models will have drum brakes on the rear wheels since drum brakes are more affordable to manufacture.
Since brake shoes are enclosed, they can better resist corrosion. However, drum brakes are a more complex system than disc brakes, making brake shoes more difficult and time consuming to replace than brake pads. While the vulnerability of brake pads leaves it potentially exposed to corrosion, it also makes them more accessible.

While brake shoes may not require service as frequently as brake pads, they won’t last forever. Just like brake pads, brake shoes must be changed routinely in order to avoid issues with your braking system or, worse, brake failure. Fortunately, checking the condition of your braking system is easy! Head into Wisener’s Auto Clinic for a brake inspection. We’ll perform a visual inspection of the braking system including both front and rear braking components, brake fluid, master cylinder condition, brake lines and the emergency brake. We will also perform a test drive to check the operation of your brake system. Once we’re done with the inspection, we’ll let you know which services or repairs are recommended or required to help keep your brakes operating (and stopping) smoothly!

Brake Modules & Programming

Today’s brake systems rely heavily on computers and modules to operate their complex systems. The programming and flashing of these components require OEM software updates, specialty tools and training. We can do all this just like the dealer without the dealer price tag. Bring it to Wisener’s today and experience the difference.

Brake Bleeding and Flushing

Think of it this way: You wouldn’t skip changing your car’s engine oil, right? It’s the lifeblood of your engine, and when it gets contaminated by impurities, you put the entire engine at risk. It’s the same with brake fluid. Let it get dirty and you won’t be able to stop as well. So while it may not seem like a big deal when you’re standing at the service desk and the mechanic asks if you want him to flush your brakes, but when you’re careening down that mountain road, you’ll understand why it’s an important part of vehicle maintenance.

A good rule of thumb is to have your brakes flushed about every 30,000 miles or your manufactures recommended interval. Note that brake flushing and bleeding the brakes are two different procedures. Brake flushing involves removing all the brake fluid from the system and getting all-new, clean fluid inside. Brake bleeding just means removing enough brake fluid to get air bubbles out of the brake lines. So, make sure you get your brakes flushed regularly.

And, if you ever notice your car or truck has decreased stopping power, have it inspected by one of our certified mechanics right away — even if you’re not planning a drive in the mountains.

Brake Fluid Leak Repair

Your vehicle’s braking system is designed to be a closed system. It’s composed of a brake pedal, various switches, a reservoir, brake lines, various cylinders, links, pistons and brake fluid. Components such as the reservoir, master cylinder and brake lines are stationary while switches and pistons are frequently on the move.

Damage to any of these components can result in brake fluid leaks that can affect the performance and response of your vehicle’s braking system. Keeping your brake system in proper working order is critical to maintaining a safe and dependable vehicle. Head into Wisener’s Auto Clinic for a brake inspection. We’ll perform a visual inspection of the braking system including both front and rear braking components, brake fluid, master cylinder condition, brake lines and the emergency brake. We will also perform a test drive to check the operation of your brake system. Once we’re done with the inspection, we’ll let you know which services or repairs are recommended or required to help keep your brakes operating (and stopping) smoothly!