Brakes on Commercial Vehicles
The three main parts of your braking system include:
Calipers – which press the brake pads against the rotors
Brake Pads – which create friction to stop the rotation of your wheels
Rotors – which are attached to your wheels and spin along with them
As a commercial truck driver, you know that brakes are an essential part of keeping your rig safe on the road. But how often should you change them?
The answer to this question depends on a few factors, including the type of truck you drive and how often you use your brakes.
However, as a general rule of thumb, you should change your truck’s brakes and rotors every 50,000 to 70,000 miles.
If you drive a heavy-duty truck, such as a semi-truck, you may need to change your brakes more often. This is because these trucks put more stress on their brakes due to their size and weight.
If you use your brakes frequently, you may also need to change them more often. This is because the pads can wear down faster when they’re used more often.
If you’re not sure how often to change your truck’s brakes and rotors, it’s best to consult with a professional mechanic. They can inspect your brakes and give you an accurate estimate of when they need to be changed.
Signs Your Breaks Need Maintenance:
1. Your truck is pulling to one side when you brake
2. You hear squealing or grinding noises when you brake
3. Your brake pedal feels spongy or soft when you press it
4. It takes longer than usual for your truck to stop
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your brakes checked as soon as possible. Driving with worn-out brakes can be dangerous and increase your risk of getting into an accident.
Changing your truck’s brakes and rotors is a relatively simple process. However, it’s best to leave it to a professional mechanic if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
If you need to change your brakes, be sure to use high-quality parts that are designed for your specific truck. Using inferior brake parts can cause problems and may even void your truck’s warranty.
When you change your brakes, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This will ensure that your brakes are installed correctly and work properly.
You should also have your truck’s alignment checked after changing your brakes. This is because the brake pads can cause the wheels to become misaligned.
If you have any questions about changing your truck’s brakes or rotors, consult with a professional mechanic. They can help you choose the right parts and make sure they’re installed correctly.
