Give Yourself Room
Wet pavement makes every stop longer, and ice makes it much longer. Leave extra space to the car ahead, and start braking earlier and more gently than you would on a dry road.
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Brake advice
What should I know about my brakes in severe weather?
Rain, heat, ice and road salt all change how your brakes behave. A few habits keep you stopping straight when the weather turns.
What to do
Dry Them Off
Deep water can soak your brakes so they grab less. Once you're through and it's safe, press the pedal lightly a few times at low speed to dry them. Never drive into a flooded road.
Let ABS Do Its Job
If your car has anti-lock brakes and you have to stop hard on ice or snow, press the pedal firmly and hold it. You may feel it pulse and hear a grinding sound. That's the ABS working, so keep your foot down and steer. Without ABS, brake gently and ease off if the wheels lock.
Watch the Hills in the Heat
Riding the brakes down a long grade on a hot day can overheat them until they fade and stop less. Shift to a lower gear so the engine helps slow the car.
Rinse Off the Salt
Road salt and brine speed up rust on rotors, calipers and brake lines. Wash the underside of your car after winter storms.
Check Before the Season Turns
Worn pads and old brake fluid show up fast in bad weather. Every Budget Brakes shop does a free brake inspection, so get one before winter or the rainy season.
Your free brake inspection includes:
Worn outBrake pad thicknessBrand new
Measured, not guessed. New pads start around 12 mm. We start the conversation near 3 mm, and you see the number.
No pressure. Just answers.
Sixteen shops. One way of doing things.
Ready for every mile.
Quality parts at low prices, an honest look at what your car needs, and a guarantee that travels with you to any Budget Brakes.
