Hi, my name is Stan, and I want to welcome you to my blog. I love working on cars, and I have worked on them since I was a little kid working alongside my dad. Over the years, I have seen vehicles grow more complicated, and I have also seen a range of parts manufacturers enter the market. Some of them make amazing parts while others make parts that aren't quite as good as original manufacturer parts. If you want to learn about the differences between generic and original parts or if you have other questions on auto parts, this blog has the answers you need. Please get comfortable and start exploring.
Most modern cars or trucks have a disc braking system, as this is felt to be the most efficient way of bringing the vehicle to a halt safely. As you may know, this type of system relies on degradable replacement pads that wear down every time that the driver applies the pedal. However, in order to keep the vehicle running as long as possible without interruption and to make sure that everything is as safe as possible, the driver needs to keep an eye on those degradable parts and replace them as and when needed. Otherwise, they may sometimes wear down too quickly due to a condition known as "glaze." How is this caused and what can you do if you encounter the problem?
What Should Happen
Every time that you apply the brake pedal, the pads are activated and will press against each brake disc. As this disc is connected to a hub that is also, in turn, connected to the road wheel, the vehicle will slow down. Each pad is made from a friction material and a certain amount of it will wear away every time that the pedal is applied. Ideally, this level of wear will be uniform, and you should not need to replace those pads too often.
High Levels of Heat
However, friction pads do not perform particularly well if they are subject to excess heat. Some amount of heat is generated no matter what when the pedal is applied, but if the heat fails to dissipate and high temperatures prevail for too long, then the surface of the pad can become shiny or glazed. When this happens, it will be completely ineffective and will need to be replaced as soon as possible.
Excess Wear
Sometimes, a problem with the hydraulic system or an ineffective piston can cause an issue. The pad may fail to retract once it has been used and will, therefore, continue to press up against the disc. You may notice that something is amiss if you can hear a scratching sound coming from the direction of the wheel before you even press the brake pedal.
What to Do Next
Many cars are fitted with alloy wheels and it may be possible for you to inspect the condition of the brake pad by looking through the centre of the wheel. If it looks shiny, it may have glazed over, and you will need to take the vehicle into a mechanic as soon as possible. When you are there, insist that they use the highest-quality brake pads that are specifically designed for this vehicle, as they will be able to resist excessive heat more effectively and should, therefore, last longer.
For more information on brake pads, such as Renault brake pads, contact an auto shop.
Share25 September 2019
