Baltimore & Cockeysville Auto Repair

Weather and traffic conditions can be unpredictable whenever you're on the road. Especially this time of year, Baltimore roads can be wet and slippery, making many drivers rely on their brakes. While you may fear that your primary brakes cannot handle the slick roads, have no worries because your vehicle has an ABS or anti-lock brake system.   The ABS is a safety component installed in all vehicles today, and they are designed to stop your brakes from locking up after heavily pressing on the pedal. This system aims not to enhance your stopping power but instead to prevent your tires from locking up, skidding, and hydroplaning. Therefore, you should trust that your ABS will engage if you need to brake on  slick or wet roads.   When this light comes on your dashboard, it means that the anti-lock system isn't working as it should and has been deactivated. Your regular brakes will still work, but if you slam on them, the ABS may not engage. However, you may risk ... read more

Brake fluid is an essential part of a hydraulic braking system. It is intended to activate the brakes from your foot's force on the brake pedal. In order to achieve smooth and effective braking, your brake fluid needs to be at a suitable viscosity, have a high boiling point, and be anti-corrosive. Viscocity: A good, flowing liquid is a quality you should look for in brake fluid. The best way to determine which type is suitable for your car is to check the owner's manual or ask a trusted technician. This is an important task because most brake fluids are either glycol- or silicone-based, and you should never mix them! Boiling Point: Brake fluid must have a high boiling point because the friction from your brake pads creates a lot of heat. This ensures that your brakes don't fail on you. Anti-Corrosive: A good brake fluid usually has additives that help prevent corrosion in the brake lines. Brake fluid is prone to contamination from moisture. Ways Brake Fluid Can Go Bad I ... read more