What Are Brakes & Suspension and How Do They Work?

• Brakes: Pressing the pedal sends hydraulic pressure to calipers, squeezing pads against rotors to slow the vehicle. ABS and stability systems help you stop straight and safely.
• Suspension: Shocks/struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, and bushings keep tires planted, absorb bumps, and maintain alignment for confident steering and braking.

Why This Service Matters

• Shorter stopping distances and consistent pedal feel
• Stable, quiet ride with precise steering
• Prevents uneven tire wear and protects rotors/calipers
• Keeps ABS/traction systems operating correctly

Important to Know

• Pad life is typically 30,000–70,000 miles; rotors usually last 1–2 pad sets.
• Brake fluid absorbs moisture—flush every 2–3 years or per manufacturer schedule.
• Shocks/struts commonly wear by 60,000–100,000 miles; leaks or bounce indicate replacement.
• After replacing struts, control arms, or tie rods, a 4‑wheel alignment is recommended.
• We use OEM or equivalent parts and include new hardware/sensors where required.

How Brakes & Suspension Service Is Done
Brakes

1. Road test and inspection: pedal feel, noises, vibration, and pull.
2. Measure pad thickness, rotor thickness/runout; inspect calipers, hoses, slides, and fluid.
3. Replace pads/rotors as needed; clean hubs; lubricate slide pins and contact points.
4. Replace hardware and wear sensors (where equipped); perform fluid flush if due.
5. Torque wheels to spec, bed‑in pads, verify no leaks or warning lights.

Suspension

1. Inspect tires, ride height, shocks/struts (leaks), mounts/bearings, control arms, ball joints, tie rods, sway‑bar links/bushings, and wheel bearings.
2. Replace worn components; torque fasteners at ride height to protect bushings.
3. For struts: transfer or install new mounts/bearings or quick‑strut assemblies.
4. Verification road test and digital report; recommend alignment if needed.

When to Repair vs. Replace

• Brakes: Replace rotors if below minimum thickness, heat‑spotted, warped, or causing pulsation; replace calipers if leaking or seized.
• Suspension: Replace shocks/struts for leaks or excessive bounce; control arms/ball joints/tie rods if play or torn boots; wheel bearings for growl/hum or play.

Signs You May Need Brake Service

• Squealing, squeaking, or grinding when braking
• Vibration or steering wheel shake on stops
• Car pulls to one side or pedal feels soft/spongy
• Brake or ABS warning light illuminated
• Burning smell or visible fluid leaks

Signs You May Need Suspension Service

• Clunks, creaks, or rattles over bumps
• Excessive bounce, nose‑dive on braking, or body roll in corners
• Uneven or cupped tire wear; vehicle wanders or pulls
• Steering feels loose; vibration that changes with bumps/turns
• Oily struts/shocks or cracked bushings

How Important Is This Service?
Critical for safety and tire life. Worn brakes or suspension increase stopping distance, reduce control, and can damage tires and other components. Nationwide Mechanics brings certified technicians and quality parts to your driveway for safe, quiet braking and a stable, comfortable ride.

What You Get with Nationwide Mechanics

• Certified mobile technicians
• Upfront pricing and a digital inspection report
• OEM or equivalent pads/rotors and suspension parts with new hardware where required
• Correct lubrication, torque, and pad bedding procedures
• Post‑repair road test and guidance on alignment
• Convenient at‑home or office service