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Larry H. Miller Volkswagen knows VW brakes so you don't have to. 
Don't put off a brake repair!  When in doubt, let our Certified Volkswagen Technicians check it out! 

Your safety, and the safety of others on the road, is why every time you bring your car to Larry H. Miller Volkswagen for an oil change we make a visual check of your brakes. 

But when we can't be there, you must pay attention and listen to your brakes. Most often brakes will give you an audible indication of a repair that may be due. If you ever hear any unusual sound coming from your brakes, drive your car directly in to Lakewood Volkswagen's Service Department, and let a Certified Volkswagen Technician diagnosis the problem. Not only is delaying brake repair extremely dangerous, but the longer you delay fixing a braking problem, the more you increase the cost of the repair.  

We service ALL makes & models!

Additional Troubleshooting 
When inspecting brakes, check calipers, wheel cylinders, hoses and fittings for any hydraulic fluid leakage. Inspect the master cylinder, reservoir and proportioning valve assemblies as well. Replace or rebuild as required.

A "spongy" brake pedal or one that's gotten lower underfoot also needs looking into. It could be caused by sticking calipers, worn pads, low fluid or hydraulic system problems.

If you can't "pump them up", then you definitely have hydraulic problems that need work. If you always have to pump them up, at the very least your hydraulic fluid needs replacement.

To check brakes by sound, know how your brakes should sound and listen for out-of-the-ordinary noises. Most cars have a slight brushing sound from the pads lightly touching the rotors. This is perfectly normal. 

Sounds to beware of include:
  • Squeaking may be caused by dust or dirt on the brakes, loose pads vibrating when applied or worn pads.
  • Rhythmic noise might mean you have a warped rotor. Instead of a solid squeaking noise, it pulsates. In extreme cases, the brake pedal will also pulsate underfoot.
  • Constant brake noise is never a good sound and any grinding noise spells real trouble!
Most importantly, as soon as any problem is noticed, get it repaired immediately. Delaying brake repairs is extremely dangerous.

  • Overstressed rotors and drums can break. Brakes may be too worn or damaged to stop your Volkswagen in an emergency.
  • Even if you manage to avoid physical harm, the longer you delay fixing brake problems, the more you increase the cost of doing so.
  • Badly worn, warped or overheated rotors can damage wheel bearings and the complete wheel hub assembly. These parts often cost as much or more than the brakes themselves.

Even if you like doing your own work, every few years your Volkswagen brakes should be examined by a Volkswagen professional. Checking brakes for "run-out", warping, wheel bearing play, proper proportioning balance, among others, are normally more involved than can be accomplished in your garage. This inspection can also uncover underlying problems that could eventually become costly or dangerous.

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