Your car’s braking system and suspension components play an important role in its safety and smooth handling on the road. Over time, parts like brake discs, hubs, pads, and control arms wear out, which ultimately requires replacement or resurfacing. Knowing when and how to replace these components can save you from costly repairs and potential accidents.
Brake discs are the surfaces that brake pads clamp onto to slow down or stop your car. With prolonged use, these discs can wear out, develop grooves, or warp due to heat and pressure. Now let’s discuss when to replace your brake discs:
- If the disc has deep grooves or is excessively worn, replacement is the best option.
- If the disc is slightly uneven or has minor surface wear, resurfacing (machining a thin layer off the surface) can restore its effectiveness.
- Vibrations or pulsations when braking indicate warped rotors, which should be replaced.
- If the brake disc thickness falls below the manufacturer’s minimum specification, replacement is mandatory.
Why Resurfacing Isn’t Always Enough: Modern brake discs are often designed thinner than older models, leaving little room for resurfacing. Additionally, resurfacing may only provide a temporary fix for underlying problems. Replacing the disc ensures better performance and longevity.
Brake Pads Replacement
Brake pads press against the disc to create friction and bring your car to a stop. Over time, they wear down and must be replaced to maintain braking efficiency.
4 Signs You Need New Brake Pads:
- A squealing or grinding noise when braking.
- Reduced braking performance or longer stopping distances.
- A vibrating brake pedal.
- Visible wear: If the pad material is less than 3mm thick, it’s time to replace them.
Regularly changing brake pads prevents damage to your brake discs and improves overall safety. Always replace pads in pairs (both front or both rear) to maintain balanced braking.
Why You Should Consider Hub Replacement
Wheel hubs connect the wheels to your vehicle and house the wheel bearings. A faulty hub can lead to uneven tire wear, vibrations, and even wheel detachment in severe cases.
4 Signs That Your Wheel Hubs Needs Replacement
- If you hear a humming or growling noise coming from the wheels.
- If the wheel wobbles or has excessive play when jacked up.
- If the ABS warning light comes on (some hubs contain built-in ABS sensors).
Replacing worn hubs ensures proper wheel alignment and smooth, noise-free driving.
Lower Arm & Upper Arm Replacement
The lower and upper control arms are key parts of the suspension system, responsible for connecting the wheels to the chassis and maintaining proper wheel alignment.
4 Signs of a Bad Control Arm:
- Clunking or knocking noises when driving over bumps.
- Uneven tire wear.
- Steering wandering or lack of control.
- Vibration in the steering wheel.
A worn control arm can affect your car’s stability and handling, making it important to replace them when necessary. Control arms also contain bushings and ball joints, which may need replacement if they show signs of wear.
Regular inspections and timely replacements of your brake and suspension components will help in maintaining safety, extend the lifespan of your car, and improve driving comfort.
If you experience any of the warning signs mentioned above, visit Body Solutions Garage for an inspection. Investing in quality parts and professional installation will keep your car in top shape and ensure you drive with confidence.