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Top 5 common mistakes when changing brakes and how to avoid them
The brake system is one of the most important components of any vehicle, as it ensures the safety of occupants and other drivers on the road. While changing the brakes may seem like a simple task, it is crucial to perform the process correctly to avoid operational problems. In this blog, we will address the five most common mistakes when changing brakes and how you can avoid them. We will also explain the different types of brakes available and how to select the right one for your vehicle, whether it's a car, van or motorbike.
Mistake 1: Not choosing the right brake type
There are several types of brakes, and selecting the right one for your vehicle is critical. The most common are disc brakes and drum brakes.
-Disc brakes: These are the most common on modern cars and vans. They use a disc and caliper that squeeze the brake pads against the disc, generating friction to stop the vehicle. They are known for their heat dissipation efficiency and performance under demanding conditions.
-Drum brakes: Although less common on new vehicles, they are still found on the rear of some cars and vans. They work by means of brake shoes pressing against a rotating drum. They are cheaper, but tend to heat up faster than disc brakes, which reduces their effectiveness under prolonged braking.
For motorbikes, disc brakes are also the most popular because of their ability to stop the wheel with greater precision and low weight.
How to avoid it: Make sure you know your vehicle's specifications and always consult the manufacturer's manual or consult a professional to find out which type of brake is most suitable. If you're looking for a reliable option, brands like SDT Brakes offer both high quality brake discs and pads for a variety of vehicles.
Mistake 2: Installing brake pads incorrectly
One of the most common mistakes when changing brakes is to install the brake pads incorrectly. This can lead to uneven wear or, worse, failure of the braking system.
How to avoid it: Before starting the process, make sure that the brake pads are correctly aligned with the disc. The contact surface should be even, and it is essential to check that the calipers are properly adjusted. Also, use grease specifically for moving brake components, such as sliding pins, to ensure that the calipers are working properly.
Mistake 3: Failure to replace or check discs
Another common mistake is not inspecting or replacing discs when changing brake pads. Discs can wear over time and develop grooves or deformations that reduce the effectiveness of the braking system.
How to avoid: Always check discs when changing pads. If you notice deep grooves, vibrations when braking or if the discs are thinner than recommended, it is time to replace them. SDT Brakes offers a wide range of high performance brake discs, manufactured from materials that ensure superior durability and performance.
Mistake 4: Failure to bleed the brake system properly
The brake system depends on brake fluid to function properly. If the system is not properly bled when the brakes are changed, air bubbles can be trapped in the circuit, affecting the braking pressure and consequently the performance of the system.
How to avoid: After changing the brakes, bleed the system to remove any air bubbles. Make sure the brake fluid is clean and in good condition. Regular replacement is key to maintaining a safe and functional brake system.
Mistake 5: Failure to perform a complete brake system inspection
By focusing only on changing brake pads or discs, many people forget to carry out a complete inspection of the system. Items such as calipers, brakes, brake fluid and hoses can also show wear over time.
How to avoid it: Every time you change your brakes, take the opportunity to do a thorough inspection of the entire system. Check the calipers to make sure they are not blocked or worn, check the condition of the brake fluid and make sure there are no leaks in the hoses. If you are unsure how to perform this inspection, it is best to consult a specialist.
How to choose the right braking system for your vehicle
When choosing brakes, it is important to consider the type of vehicle you drive:
Cars: Most modern cars are equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels, although some cheaper vehicles may have drum brakes at the rear. Brands such as SDT Brakes offer high performance discs designed specifically for a wide range of models.
Vans: Vans require a more robust braking system due to their greater weight and load capacity. Extra ventilated disc brakes are often the best option to ensure greater heat dissipation capacity.
Motorbikes: On motorbikes, light weight and the need for quick response make disc brakes the best choice. SDT Brakes also has options designed specifically for motorbikes, offering safety and control in all riding conditions.
Conclusion
Changing your vehicle's brakes is not a difficult task, but avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference to performance and safety. From the correct selection of brake type to accurate installation and system inspection, each step is essential to ensure optimum braking. Don't forget that specialist brands like SDT Brakes offer high quality products for all types of vehicles, ensuring the best on-road experience.