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Brake Pad Replacement in Willow Glen, San Jose

brake pads

Brake pad replacement is the most frequent brake service we perform at our Willow Glen, San Jose auto repair shop. Brake pads are “wear” items – as you use your brakes, brake pads press against rotors and generate friction that slows down the vehicle. Over time, the friction wears them down, and they need to be replaced.

Modern vehicles are equipped with disc brakes which use brake pads to generate friction that slows down the car. Most manufacturers recommend that brake pads should be replaced when they are down to 1mm-4mm in thickness. That’s why at Alvin’s Auto Center we not only perform a visual inspection of your brake pads and rotors, but also measure thickness of the pads so we can give you correct brake service recommendation.

Signs that brake pads may need replacement:

  • Car pulls to one side when braking
  • Grinding noise while braking
  • Squealing or squeaking sounds when braking
  • Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard

If your car exhibits any of the above symptoms, it’s time to visit your friendly mechanic. Not all of the above signs necessarily mean that brake pads are at fault – that’s why a professional brake inspection is indicated.

At Alvin’s Auto Center, whenever we replace brake pads, we also inspect the rotors. Rotors can get warped by heat and friction, causing vibration of the brake pedal when braking. Visually one can see groves on the surface. In the olden days, rotors could be resurfaced – any unevenness would be stripped away. Unfortunately, modern rotors are made much thinner, to save vehicle weight (and improve mileage) so it is recommended that they be replaced when warped. If your vehicle’s rotors do need to be replaced, we will let you know before we proceed.

Once the brake pads are replaced, the car is tested, including a road test, to verify that the brake system and new brake pads function properly under real world conditions.

Whenever your vehicle is at our Willow Glen auto repair shop, whether for repairs or service, it will undergo a free digital vehicle inspection. This way you are always up-to-date about the overall condition of your car. You can also anticipate:

  • Clean, children friendly office
  • Use of Original Equipment or better quality parts
  • 24 month / 24,000 mile warranty
  • Local free towing (10 mile radius around the shop)
  • Same day brake pad replacement completion (in most cases)

Our nationally ASE certified technicians are ready to help your vehicle be at its best. Brake system is one of the most important safety systems of your vehicle. So if your car indicates that it’s time for brake pad replacement, or if you are even slightly concerned about the brake system, bring your vehicle to us for a professional brake inspection.

You can make an appointment online, or simply call us at the shop. We are happy to be of service.