Give Your Car A Brake (NAPSA)—If you're like most motorists, youre concerned about safety. In fact, research shows that vehicle safety is a top motivator for most motorists when it comes to vehicle maintenance and the brake system is at the top of the vehicle safety checklist. “Brakes are a normal wear item for any car and eventually they’re going to need to be replaced for both performance and safety reasons,” explained Rich White, executive director, Car Care Council. “A properly operating brake system helps ensure safe vehicle operation and control under a variety of conditions. However, many motorists are un- aware of the signs and symptoms that their brake system may need maintenanceor repair.” What To Look For It’s important to be alert and recognize the warning signs of brake trouble. If your car is pulling to the left or right, or if you hear odd noises when you apply the brakes, you should inspect your brakes. Other warning signs include an illuminated brake warning light, brake grabbing, low pedal feel, vibration, hard pedal feel and squealing. What To Do For routine maintenance, check your vehicle’s braking system at least once a year. A thorough inspection should include brake lining wear, brakefluid level, rotor thickness, condition of hoses and brake lines, brake and dash warn- ing lights, as well as taking the Car care experts say don’t stop short of checking brakes rou- tinely and repairing or replacing when necessary. car for a test-drive to detect other potential brake system problems. What Not To Do Several factors that affect brake wearinclude driving habits, operating conditions, vehicle type and the quality of the brake lining material. “Never put off routine brake inspections or any needed repair, such as letting the brakes get to the ‘metal-to-metal’ point, which can be potentially dangerous and lead to a more costly repair bill,” White added. “If you haven’t checked your brakes in the past year, it’s a great timeto ‘give your car a brake’ and makesureit’s in safe working condition.” The Car Care Council’s “” consumer education campaign promotes the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair to consumers. Where To Learn More For a “Car Care Guide” or more information, visit www.carcare.org.
