Keeping your Saab's brakes in good working order is a vital part of keeping your car healthy and running right. Brake systems for import cars like the Saab are build with minimal thickness in order to save weight, but this unfortunately means that the brake rotors much be replaced rather than simply turned. The second most common cause for failure is overheating or warping from heat, as brake rotors in import cars like the Saab are much more sensitive to overheating.
Here is some information that you absolutely need to know to save money on your Saab brake repairs -
- Visually inspect the condition of your Saab's breaks at least once in a six month period. Keep an eye out for all of the following things.
The Brake Rotors or Discs, pads and drums should be regularly inspected for defects or discoloration. Discoloration may indicate damage from heat, or warping, and defects like cracking, breakage, uneven wear or grooves mean you need to replace the part immediately. Replace your brake drums, rotors and pads immediately if any defects are found. If your Saab has sensors that warn that the pads are worn, replace them as well.The Brake shoes should be evenly worn, and there should be no protruding rivets.
When you are inspecting the brakes, you need to check the wheel cylinders, the hoses, the calipers and the fittings for any chance of leaking hydraulic fluid. You should also check the master cylinder, the reservoir and the proportioning valve assemblies, replacing or rebuilding any faulty equipment as it is needed. If your brake pedal has gotten lower under your foot, you need to look into it, because there are a number of causes for this.
There are a number of sounds that you need to listen for, including squeaking, rhythmic noises, constant braking noises, and so on. As soon as you notice a problem of any type, you should take it in to be repaired immediately. If you delay the repair of your brakes, you may find it to be extremely dangerous.
Even if you do manage to avoid physical harm, if you delay when it comes to repairing brake problems, you can still significantly increase the costs associated with doing so. Here are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- Keep your brakes clean by washing them when you wash your car. This will keep dirt and dust off the pads, and also keeps the brakes easier to work on.
- Aim to keep the hydraulic reservoir at its proper level, using the fluid type that Saab recommends. You should never substitute the fluid or mix types.
- When it comes to brake problems, there are no quick fixes or shortcuts. They either function as they are meant to, or they do not. It is important that you know and understand your brake system so that you will know what to do when something goes wrong.
- Keep track of your repair information in a log and keep track of services, receipts and warranties.
- Most noises are related to your Saab's pads, but sensors and rotors should also be replaced when your pads are replaced.
