2880 Acton Road,
Birmingham’s Go-to Shop for
Import Auto Brake Repairs
When it comes to your safety & your vehicle’s performance, there’s almost nothing as important as properly working brakes. Whether you’re driving as usual or need to come to a sudden stop, knowing you can count on your brakes at a moment’s notice is essential. Year-round maintenance and annual service appointments are the best way to make sure that your vehicle’s brakes are free of wear & able to perform at the high level you depend on. At Franklin Automotive we specialize in complete brake maintenance & repairs for the Birmingham area’s most popular Import vehicles.
Signs it’s Time to Service Your Brakes
If you put off servicing your brakes long enough, you’ll begin to notice signs of wear & tear. Recognizing these signs early on is key to avoiding any long-term issues or compromising the performance of your vehicle’s brakes. Some key signs to look for include:
- Brake Light Stays On
- Squealing or Grinding Noises When Braking
- Wobbling or Scraping When Braking
- Visibly Leaking Fluid
- Spongy Brake Pedal
- Vehicle Pulls to One Side While Braking
- Burning Smells While Driving
- Vehicle Bounces When You Stop
With how often you drive, any diminished performance from your brakes can be risky so our technicians will always check every part of your brake system. This allows us to mark any potential trouble spots, so we can make a maintenance plan with you that ensures your brakes never get too worn down to perform at the level you depend on.
Standard Brake Services and Repair in Birmingham, AL
Leaking Brake Fluid
Brake fluid plays a crucial role in transmitting force from the brake pedal to the brake components via the hydraulic system. A leak in the brake line, hose, or caliper causes a loss of hydraulic pressure, which leads to sponginess and softness of the brake. You need to replace contaminated or dirty brake fluid immediately because these fluids will not be capable of creating the required hydraulic pressure on the brake components to work smoothly, or else the pedals go all the way to the floor with little resistance. You can come into any of our garages located near you in Birmingham, AL, to flush and replace the brake fluid.
Worn-out Brake Pads
The brake pads are the most essential components of a car’s braking system. These are the most common brake issues, as they are designed to wear down over time. These pads press themselves against the rotor to create the friction that is needed to stop your car. Continuous friction between the brake pads and rotors causes the rotors to wear out over time.
Warped or Worn Rotors
The brake rotors work in conjunction with the brake pads, providing a smooth surface for the pads to grip when the brakes are applied. Intense frictional heat can cause them to warp or wear unevenly. If worn out, it results in a vibrating or pulsating sensation when you brake. ASE-Master certified mechanics, along with advanced tools, can effectively resurface brake rotors. You can visit us at Franklin Automotive for a proper inspection and replacement or resurfacing of your brake rotors.
Air in the Brake Lines
When air or moisture enters the sealed hydraulic system and becomes trapped, it makes the brake pedal feel spongy and soft. It generally happens due to a leak and improper fluid changes. The presence of air in the brake line absorbs the force applied on the pedals for applying the brake, as the air is compressible, but brake fluid is not. You feel your brakes are spongy because the air is pressurized, which feels different from normal and reduces braking effectiveness.
Failing Master Cylinder
The master cylinder is considered the heart of your braking system. It converts the pressure from your foot into hydraulic pressure. When it fails, brake fluid pressure cannot be appropriately distributed to the wheels. This results in soft, unresponsive brakes or, in severe cases, complete brake failure. Master cylinder problems require immediate professional attention and repair.
Franklin Automotive: The Best Auto Repair Shop in Birmingham, AL
At Franklin Automotive, located near you in Birmingham, AL, we are committed to providing high-end car owners with the best brake repairs that they won’t come across anywhere else. We are the best auto shop in town because:
- Our ASE-Master certified technicians have the expertise and experience to identify potential problems before they escalate.
- We provide you with a comfortable waiting area with free WiFi, complimentary coffee, snacks, and beverages.
- We have clean restrooms on-site for your convenience.
- We are providing free key fob battery replacement and free tire rotation.
- We have loaner cars available for your use.
- We provide after-hours pick-up and drop-off.
- We also offer complimentary shuttle service within a 10-mile radius of our store.
Schedule an Appointment Today
Conveniently located in Birmingham, since 1992 the team at Franklin Automotive has welcomed drivers throughout town & surrounding areas including:
If your car is due for service or for a routine maintenance inspection for your brakes, please call or visit our shop today. Our friendly, knowledgeable mechanics are always here to help you get the best for your vehicle.
FAQs
What is ABS (Anti-lock Braking System)?
It is the system that prevents the wheels from locking during hard braking. This improves traction and safety.
Do brakes wear out faster in city driving?
In this instance, not geography, but the manner of driving wears out the brakes. Frequent stops and starts while driving are what cause faster brake wear.
What does it mean if my brake pedal goes to the floor?
That means your bake is performing very negligibly. Possible causes include a brake fluid leak or a complete failure of the master cylinder. This is a critical safety concern and should be addressed by a technician immediately.
How can I tell if I have a brake fluid leak?
Puddles of clear or yellowish liquid near the tires are generally a sign of a fluid leak. In addition, a spongy or soft brake pedal also indicates a brake fluid leak.
