Car brakes can fail in summer! Must check these 5 things before leaving on a journey

In the summer season, the scorching sun and rising temperature badly affect not only our body but also the parts of our vehicle. In this season, there is maximum pressure on the braking system of the car. When you drive in hot weather and use the brakes frequently, friction causes excessive heat to build up in the brake pads and discs.

If this is not taken care of, the risk of brake failure increases, which can lead to a major accident. Therefore, it is very important to keep an eye on the health of the brakes for safe travel in scorching heat and long life of the vehicle. Let us know the 5 easiest and most important tips, with the help of which you can keep the brakes of your car in good condition in summer.

1. Checking the level and quality of brake fluid

Brake fluid (oil) is the lifeblood of your braking system. During summers, due to low level or old age, the brakes do not work properly. Check the brake fluid level every month by opening the bonnet. If its color has become dark or black, then get it replaced by a mechanic immediately.

2. Check the thickness of the brake pads

Brake pads wear out due to repeated braking. Due to the heat of summer, the speed of their deterioration increases further. If the car squeaks while applying brakes or there is a sound of metal hitting something, then understand that it is time to change the brake pads. Changing these on time keeps the brake disc safe.

3. Take care of the health of rotors and discs

Due to high heat and constant friction, brake rotors (disks) become very hot. Due to excessive heat, sometimes slight cracks appear in the discs or they get warped. If you feel vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal when you apply the brakes, get the rotors checked immediately.

4. Make some changes in driving style

Avoid continuously pressing the brake while descending a slope in summer or in heavy traffic. Due to this the brakes overheat. Instead, use engine braking (lower gears) to slow the vehicle. Also, maintain a safe distance from the next vehicle so that you do not have to brake suddenly and hard.

5. Get brake servicing done from time to time

Get your car thoroughly serviced at the beginning of summer or before going on a long trip. Ask a mechanic to get the brake callipers greased and the entire system cleaned. By removing the air trapped in the brake lines (bleeding), the grip and response of the brakes becomes much better.