For an experienced driver, the brake and clutch system plays an integral role in ensuring you and other motorists remain safe on the road. Therefore, why should you take chances with the maintenance of the components? Unfortunately, for most motorists, the urgency of taking a car for brake and clutch inspection diminishes if a vehicle seems to be working in good condition. However, while it is true that your car might not need a regular brake and clutch inspection, there are circumstances when it is mandatory. This article looks at the best times to have the brakes and clutch systems examined. Read on.
Before a Long Trip -- If you are planning a long trip, then it would be a time to have a mechanic run a diagnosis on your car's braking and clutch system. Although pads with only half of their thickness remaining are enough for everyday use, they will surely not last the entire long-distance trip -- to and fro. Long-distance trips place extra wear on both the clutch and brake pads, and this is especially the case on rough, steep terrain where you have to use the brakes and clutch frequently. If you don't inspect these parts before you commence your long-distance trip, the pads could be dangerously thin by the time you get back from the trip, thus posing a danger to you and your vehicle. Therefore, ensure you inspect the brakes and clutch if you know you'll be driving more than a thousand miles and in harsh weather.
Strange Noises -- The brake and clutch systems are made of several metallic parts. Despite this, they should operate quietly. However, if you begin to hear strange noises every time you engage the brake or clutch, it is time to have the systems checked. For instance, brake and clutch pads are fitted with metal strips with act as wear indicators. As the pads wear off, the metal strips come into contact with the brake disc, consequently producing a grinding or squealing noise. This intentional design lets you know that it is time to replace your brake and clutch pads. However, it is vital to remember that only visual inspection will determine whether such a replacement is necessary.
Sharing Vehicle with a Novice Driver -- Experienced motorists know how to use the brake and the clutch in their car to efficient effect. They know that applying the brakes and clutch in synchronisation is reserved only for emergencies where the vehicle needs to come to an abrupt stop. However, if you have been sharing your car with a novice driver, then the chances are that the newbie frequently presses the brake with the clutch at the same time. The combination not only leads to excessive fuel consumption, but it also promotes depreciation of brake quality. Therefore, if you share your car with a learner driver, ensure you regularly schedule for brake and clutch inspection.
