Modern-day cars are usually fitted with a disc braking system. This particular type of brake may be fitted to the front and rear of the vehicle and is felt to be the most efficient way of bringing it to a halt. Yet as with many other components fitted to an average car, you will need to take care of these discs and, potentially, service them at the same time as a scheduled visit to your mechanic. What conditions can lead to issues with these discs, and what should you be on the lookout for?
Dealing with Heat
During normal operation, a great deal of heat can build up in the braking system. After all, the brake pads need to "grab" the discs when they turn at high speed to bring the vehicle to a halt. To make sure that those discs are as cool as possible, car manufacturers will often fit alloy wheels to the vehicle. These are designed to allow air to flow freely across the surface of the discs. However, this type of design can also make those discs vulnerable to other road conditions, especially when it has been raining heavily.
Potential for Damage
In certain circumstances, your brake discs may be damaged when they encounter large puddles of water at the end of a long journey. They may have become particularly hot due to normal use, but they may warp ever so slightly when their sudden "bath "cools them down.
You will not be able to see this imperfection with the naked eye, but it might cause a slight peak in the surface of the disc itself. From that point on, you may notice some juddering or a vibration through the steering wheel when you apply the brakes. If this does happen, your vehicle technician may need to remove the discs when you take your car in for its next major service. They will then need to place the discs onto a specially designed machine to be readjusted and returned to a smooth condition.
Serviceable Discs
Each brake disc has been designed to accommodate this type of repair several times during its expected lifespan. So long as you have not requested this service too many times in the past, you will probably be able to machine them once again.
If you have noticed some juddering or vibration, get in touch with brake repair services as soon as possible. They will schedule a service visit for you so they can take care of the issue.
