Richard Petty once told AutoNetTV, “You've gotta have good brakes. If you've got good brakes you can keep yourself out of a lotta trouble.”

That's why a regular brake inspection is on every Chicago driver's maintenance schedule. An inspection by your service advisor at Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) will check your brake system and let you know if there are any problems.

Of course, if you're having trouble with your brakes, get your car into Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) in Chicago right away. Here are some symptoms for Chicago drivers to watch for:

• Low or spongy brake pedal
• Hard brake pedal
• A brake warning light that stays on
• Constantly squealing or grinding brakes
• Vibrations or clunking sounds when you apply your brakes

If you are experiencing any of these, it's time to get your brakes checked. Talk to your friendly and knowledgeable service advisor at Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) .

There are two types of brakes: disc and drum. Disc brakes have a rotor that's attached to the axle. Calipers straddle the rotor, kind of like the brakes on a bicycle.

Drum brakes are most common on back wheels. Both types have pads or shoes that press against the brakes and slow the vehicle. Brake pads and shoes are made out of very tough material to withstand the heat and force generated when stopping your vehicle. Eventually, they wear out with use and become too thin and need to be replaced at Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy). 

If the brake pads wear away completely, you can damage the rotors. The calipers can grind grooves in the rotor. Then the rotor must either be resurfaced or replaced. That's not only expensive but also dangerous because your vehicle won't stop as quickly. Sometimes rotors warp or crack and must be replaced.

A brake service at Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) will also include a check of your brake fluid. When the brakes are applied, the pressure in the fluid activates the brake pads or shoes. Not enough fluid means not enough pressure to brake properly. Also, water builds up in the brake fluid over time, which leads to corrosion, leaks and brake damage, and with hard use, the brakes could severely fade or even fail. Chicago  drivers should change the brake fluid when their  vehicle manufacturer recommends to avoid these problems.

Come in to Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy) for an brake inspection before damage occurs. You can call ahead for an appointment by calling 773-929-3622.

Tuffy Chicago (Diversey Pkwy)
1400 West Diversey Pkwy
Chicago, Illinois 60614
773-929-3622