The Best Way to Fix Brake Problems Due to Snow, Ice and Salt

How Snow, Ice, and Salt Affect Your Vehicle’s Brakes

The first days of Spring may be here, but it seems that winter is taking it’s time leaving. And though winter is officially in our rearview windows, drivers may have noticed the affects a season of snow, ice and salted roads have had on our car’s brakes. Because, snow, ice and salt on roads pose a threat to various parts of your vehicle, including the brakes. Therefore, it’s important to understand how these elements affect your brakes. And what steps you can take to ensure you enter spring with well function brakes. So, the experts at Meineke on East Market Street in York walk you though what you need to know:

The Impact of Snow and Ice

Snow and ice create slippery road conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. And this requires drivers to rely heavily on their brakes. Unfortunately, when you apply the brakes on a snowy or icy surface, the effectiveness of your vehicle’s stopping power diminishes. And this increase action and use of your brakes can lead to more ware and tear on this vital part.

Moreover, snow and ice can accumulate on the brake pads and rotors. and this can cause additional and uneven wear. Plus, ice buildup can cause brake components to freeze, resulting in brake drag or even complete failure in extreme cases.

The Role of Salt

To combat icy roads, York municipalities often use salt or de-icing chemicals to improve traction. And, while salt helps melt ice and snow, it also speeds the corrosion of metal components, including your brakes. Unfortunately, when salt residue accumulates on brake parts, it can lead to rust and deterioration. And this compromises brake performance and safety.

3 Tips for Brake Maintenance Going into Spring

1. Regular Inspections: Before you get settled into Spring, have your brakes inspected by the ASE certified mechanics at Meineke in York. Because, they can assess the condition of brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid, identifying any issues that need attention.
2. Clean Your Brakes: Wash your vehicle, paying special attention to the undercarriage and brake components. Because this will help remove salt and debris that has built up over winter and can contribute to corrosion and brake damage.
3. Brake Fluid Check: Cold temperatures can affect the viscosity of brake fluid, potentially compromising braking performance. So, have your brake fluid checked. And replace it if necessary to ensure the best brake operation driving into spring.

Meineke Will Make Sure Your Brakes are in the Best Possible Condition this Spring.

Snow, ice, and salted road pose significant challenges to your vehicle’s brakes during the winter months. But, by understanding how this affects your brakes and what to do, you can ensure your brakes remain reliable and safe. And Meineke on East Market Street in York can help with brake and fluid inspections. Then all that’s left is to enjoy the warmer adventures of Spring.

If the Meineke on East Market Street in York is not a convenient auto repair center for you, Meineke has 13 car repair centers is South Central Pennsylvania: