Back to all

Brake Service at Tuffy Charlotte Metro in Fort Mill

October 11, 2020

Brakes really aren't optional equipment for Fort Mill drivers' vehicles. And taking care of them isn't optional either.

A regular brake inspection is on every SC driver's vehicle maintenance schedule. At Tuffy Charlotte Metro, our team will check your brake system and let you know if there are any problems. Of course, if you're having trouble with your brakes, get your car into your Fort Mill service center right away. And watch out for these problems:

  • Low or spongy brake pedal
  • Hard brake pedal
  • A brake warning light that stays on
  • Constantly squealing or grinding brakes
  • Vibrations or clunking sounds when you apply your brakes

There are two types of brakes: disc and drum. Disc brakes have a rotor that's attached to the axle. Calipers straddle the rotor, kind of like the brakes on a bicycle. Drum brakes are more common on back wheels. Pads, called shoes, push against the inside of the drum to slow the vehicle.

There are several things that need to be serviced on the brake system. First, the brake pads and shoes wear out with use and become too thin to really help. If the brake pads wear away completely you can damage the rotors. The calipers can grind grooves in the rotor. Then the rotor must either be resurfaced or replaced, and that can be expensive. But putting it off is dangerous because your vehicle won't stop as quickly. Sometimes rotors warp or crack and must be replaced.

Brake fluid is also important. When the brakes are applied, the pressure in the fluid activates the brake pads or shoes. Not enough fluid, not enough pressure to brake properly. Also, water builds up in the brake fluid over time, which leads to corrosion, leaks and brake damage, and with hard use, the brakes could severely fade or even fail. Fort Mill  drivers should change the brake fluid when their vehicle manufacturer recommends it.

Be sure to properly maintain your brakes because it's a lot cheaper than paying your nearest Fort Mill area body shop after an accident.

Tuffy Charlotte Metro
9909 Charlotte Highway
Fort Mill, SC 29715
803-802-2466
http://www.tuffyftmill.com

More articles from Tuffy Fort Mill

A Stitch in Time at Tuffy Fort Mill

February 16, 2025

You probably have heard that expression, "A stitch in time saves nine." In other words, if you fix an issue at its early stages, it will prevent a much more difficult problem later. That's certainly the case with your vehicle, and here's a true story to demonstrate it. A driver noticed his vehicl... More

It's (Not) Complicated (Engine Air Filter)

February 9, 2025

While many components of your vehicle are complex and composed of lots of mechanical and electrical parts, there's one that isn't complicated but still important. It's your engine air filter. (And, we should point out, the engine air filter isn't to be confused with the cabin air filter. The ca... More

Automotive Tips from Tuffy Fort Mill: Battery Testing

February 2, 2025

The simple fact is that 70% of car batteries fail within 4 years. They just need to be replaced at Tuffy Fort Mill when they are no longer able to hold a full charge.Batteries are a big ticket item for most Fort Mill drivers and its tempting to put off buying a new one as long as possible. But a ... More