Brake Adjustment Procedures

Knowing how to inspect, troubleshoot, and adjust automobile brakes can help you be safer on the road and save you money at the repair shop. Familiarity with brake adjusting procedure can keep your car running better and longer.

Inspection

Inspecting the brake system before attempting an adjustment is the safe bet.

The absolute first thing any brake adjustment procedure must include is an inspection of the brake system. No adjustment will make up for a needed repair or worn part. Learn to check for wear or glazing on brake pads or shoes, check brake fluid level and quality, and know how to troubleshoot parts like calipers and springs. If your problem is mechanical in nature, you'll want to repair or replace your failing braking components before attempting any adjustments.

Bleeding

Bleeding the brakes releases air bubbles from the system.

In the majority of brakes that need adjustment, bleeding is the answer. Bleeding the brake line system is simple and quick, and can resolve most brake pedal feel issues. Air bubbles are released during brake line bleeds, making for a more steady, stable, and firm braking when pressure to the pedal is applied. A repair manual for your car's make and model will guide you on where your brake lines and fluid reservoir are located.

Adjusting Mechanical Components

Checking for trueness in a rotor is an important part of knowing what your brake system needs.

The final step in adjusting brakes is making sure the mechanical components of the wheel system are working properly. The majority of modern cars use self-adjusting brakes, but many are triggered by parking brake use. If you never use your parking brake, then your brakes may not be properly adjusted. See your repair manual to find out what procedures to follow to activate the self-adjusting properties of your brake pads or shoes. Also check to make sure that the caliper is sitting evenly on each side of the brake, and that the rotor is "true" and not warped.