Brake Service and Repair in Forest Lake, MN

The brake system is one of the most crucial safety components of a car. It consists of various parts that rely on one another to function properly. For instance, brake pads can wear out quickly with regular use, highlighting the importance of having Kennedy Transmission inspect them regularly. The main components of the brake system include:

• • Pads

• • Rotors

• • Calipers

• • Power brakes and boosters

• • Anti-lock brakes

If you put off getting brake repair services from Kennedy Transmission, your brake pads, rotors, and other components could malfunction, leading to serious problems. Visit our garage on West Broadway Avenue for a brake inspection today. We’re between Culver’s and Burger King, west of downtown Forest Lake.

Brake Pads and Rotors

When you press the brake pedal, the brake pads on either side of the caliper clamp down onto the rotors, slowing the car down. This process begins when the pressure generated by the brake fluid pushes a piston against the caliper, causing it to squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotor.

The caliper assembly is connected to a master cylinder via hoses, tubes, and valves that transport brake fluid throughout the system, making this entire intricate mechanism possible.

What Is the Difference Between Front and Back Brakes?

There are two sets of brakes on your vehicle—one set at the front, called disc brakes, and one set at the back, called drum brakes. Front brakes are heavier-duty brakes compared to the back ones, as each time you press on the brakes, you come to a stop—you’re shifting all the weight of the car onto the front brakes.

What Are the Warning Signs of Worn Brake Pads and Rotors?

Brake repair and maintenance is one of the most common tasks for vehicle upkeep, and for good reason. Factors such as heavy traffic, frequent braking, towing, and driving in mountainous or hilly areas can quickly wear down brake pads and rotors. Here are some common signs that your brake pads or rotors may be worn out:

• • The brake warning light on the dashboard

• • The brake fluid is low or dirty

• • Grinding or high-pitched squeaking and squealing noises when braking

• • Shaking or pulsating in the brake or steering wheel when braking

• • A spongy or soft feeling when pressing your brake pedal

• • The brakes are less responsive, taking more time to stop

Power Brakes and Booster

Power brakes, which use a hydraulic system, enhance a car’s braking efficiency compared to standard brakes. This system combines mechanical components to amplify the force applied to the brake pedal, creating sufficient power to slow down and stop your vehicle effectively.

The brake booster is the primary component of power brakes. It generates a vacuum that assists in applying pressure to the calipers, which grip the rotors. If pressing down on the brake pedal is difficult, this is a common sign that your brake booster may be failing. You may also notice that it takes longer to come to a stop than when you first began pressing on the brake.

To check if your brake booster is failing, follow these steps: First, get into the car, but do not turn on the ignition yet. Pump the brake pedal several times. Next, turn the ignition switch while keeping your foot gently on the brake pedal. If the pedal drops slightly and then becomes resistant, you likely have a problem with the brake booster.

Anti-Lock Brakes

Most vehicles today are equipped with an anti-lock braking system, ABS, designed to enhance steering control during braking and prevent the wheels from locking up. These brakes help you stop faster while keeping tires grounded on dry and wet roads.

When your car skids, slides, or comes to a sudden stop, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) activates. This system automatically pumps the brakes, allowing you to maintain steering control. In older vehicles that lacked ABS technology, drivers were advised to pump the brakes manually in such situations. However, this is no longer necessary with modern vehicles equipped with ABS.

 

If you experience problems with your anti-lock braking system, some issues that may appear include:

 

• An ABS warning light on your dashboard

• Brake inefficiency or failure

• Difficulty pressing the brake pedal

• Inaccurate speedometer measure

• Increased risk of skidding or loss of control

• Veering off to one side or brakes locking up during emergency braking

Schedule Brake Service or Repair at Kennedy Transmission in Forest Lake, MN

If you’re experiencing brake issues, such as an unresponsive pedal or difficulty stopping, turn to the highly trained, reliable team at Kennedy Transmission on West Broadway Avenue. We provide a wide range of auto repair services in Forest Lake, MN, to help you get back on the road and continue with your day!

To schedule a brake repair service appointment or to find out more about our other services like engine repairs, fill out an online contact form or call us today. Are you looking for a Kennedy Transmission location in Minnesota that’s closer to you? Contact our garage in Minneapolis, MN, on East Lake Street.

Frequently Asked Questions About Brake Repair and Service in Forest Lake, MN