Learning About Auto Services

When you drive on brakes that are excessively worn, you might not realize that your braking distance is considerably less than it should be – until it's too late. Failing to visit an automotive shop to have your brakes replaced can end up resulting in a car accident that costs you money and might even lead to an injury. You can avoid such calamities by replacing worn brakes in a timely manner. In between visits to the auto brake repair service shop, there are a number of driving tactics that you can use to extend the life of your vehicle's brakes. Here are three ideas to employ.

Don't Be A Tapper

Try to avoid falling into the habit of tapping your foot on the brake pedal. Each time you apply the brakes, you're wearing your pads and rotors – if there's no reason to hit the brakes, then all this wear is happening unnecessarily. Many drivers develop the habit of tapping the brakes when they're going down a hill or as a method to slow their speed slightly – when simply taking your foot off the gas will lead to the same result. Additionally, try to avoid reactive tapping; that is, tapping your brakes simply because the driver ahead of you has this habit. While you should never abstain from using your brakes when it's necessary, frequent tapping can often be avoided for the sake of your brake life.

Use One Foot For Your Pedals

Some motorists control their vehicle by using their right foot for accelerating and their left foot for braking. Although this approach can be suitable for some drivers, the reality is that the more you hover your left foot around the brake pedal, the more risk there is of the foot gently resting on the pedal. Even the slightest bit of pressure can engage your brakes and wear them – and the wear will only be amplified if you're also pressing the gas at the same time. Try to develop the habit of using only your right foot to press both pedals, as doing so will reduce your risk of premature brake wear.

Find Alternatives To Rush Hour

Constantly driving in rush hour can wear out your brakes extremely quickly. While many people can't always avoid rush hour driving, think of some ways that you might be able to limit your exposure to it. For example, consider taking the subway or bus to work instead of using your vehicle. You can also use your smartphone GPS app to find an alternate route to your destination to avoid driving on busy roads. Doing so will result in less braking and, in turn, prevent premature brake wear.