Drivers in San Diego know that properly functioning brakes can be a matter of life and death. It can be a scary feeling to see the brake warning light come on. If your brakes don’t function, you shouldn’t be driving your car.
Even if your brakes still function, they may require repairs. A few feet in stopping distance can be the difference in preventing a collision. For over 20 years, we’ve given the drivers of San Diego, Pacific Beach, and Mission Bay service they remember. We’ll solve your brake problems.
Bring your car in for a free brake inspection and you’ll be safe when you’re on the road again.
Conveniently Located Just off the 5 Freeway between the Garnet/Grand and Balboa/Clairemont Exits
Our Complete Brake Services
Your vehicle’s braking system is a complex hydraulic system. From the master cylinder and power booster to the anti-lock brake system (ABS), every component needs to work perfectly. Our ASE-certified master mechanics are specialists in diagnosing and repairing all parts of your brake system.
Understanding Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
Today’s braking systems are more complicated than ever. Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS) use a computerized controller, valves, and speed sensors at each wheel. If the computer detects a wheel is about to lock up and skid (like in a panic stop), it automatically “pumps” the brakes many times per second. This prevents a skid and allows you to maintain steering control. If your amber “ABS” light is on, our specialists can diagnose the fault.
Our Brake Services Include:
- ABS Diagnosis & Repair: We have the diagnostic tools to read ABS fault codes and repair the system, whether it’s a bad sensor, valve, or controller.
- Complete Brake Inspection: We visually inspect all components and measure brake pad thickness.
- Pad & Shoe Replacement: Replacing worn-out brake pads and shoes is the most common repair.
- Rotor & Drum Machining (or “Turning”): We can machine your rotors and drums to remove vibration and ensure a smooth, even surface (if they are within specification).
- Brake Fluid Exchange: We drain, flush, and replace old or contaminated brake fluid to prevent corrosion and maintain hydraulic pressure.
- System “Bleeding”: We remove any air that gets trapped in the hydraulic lines, which causes a “spongy” pedal.
- Caliper & Wheel Cylinder Service: We lubricate and service calipers or replace them if they are sticking, leaking, or frozen.
- Master Cylinder Replacement: We can replace a faulty master cylinder, the heart of your brake’s hydraulic system.
- Brake Hose Replacement: We fix and replace collapsed, cracked, or leaking brake hoses that can cause brake pulling or failure.
Warning Signs You Need Brake Repair
You should have your braking system inspected if you’ve hit a curb, been in a minor accident, or notice any of the following warning signs. Don’t wait – just a few feet of stopping distance can make all the difference.
- Brake Warning Light is On This could mean your emergency brake is engaged, but it often signals a serious problem, such as low fluid or a loss of hydraulic pressure in part of the system.
- Brakes are Squealing or Grinding A high-pitched squeal is often the “wear indicator” on your brake pads, warning you it’s time for replacement. A metallic grinding noise is more serious and means the pads are worn completely through, which can quickly damage your rotors.
- Spongy or “Long” Brake Pedal If your foot goes all the way to the floor or the pedal feels “spongy,” it’s a critical safety issue. This is usually caused by air in the hydraulic lines or a failing master cylinder.
- Vibration or Shaking in the Steering Wheel If you feel a vibration or “pulsing” in the steering wheel or brake pedal when you stop, it’s often a sign of a warped brake rotor.
- Car Pulls to One Side When you apply the brakes, your car should stop in a straight line. If it pulls to the left or right, it may be caused by a stuck caliper or a collapsed brake hose.
- Metallic-like Bad Smell A sharp, chemical, or burning smell when you brake hard can indicate overheated brake pads or a dragging caliper.
Why Choose Pacific Automotive for Brake Repair & Service?
As a vital safety system, all brake repairs should be performed by ASE-certified technicians and master mechanics, like those at Pacific Automotive. We have the latest equipment and decades of experience to service all foreign and domestic vehicles. We don’t just replace parts – we find the root cause of the problem.
Stop guessing what’s wrong. Contact us today at (858) 925-5359, online, or stop by our shop to schedule your free, no-obligation brake inspection.