One of the most attractive features of a community like Elkin is the abundance of outdoor activities that are available to residents and visitors. As the weather warms, and the stay at home orders have limited movement and activities for families across NC, getting exercise by biking, hiking or walking is thankfully still an option. Elkin boasts an extensive trail system and is conveniently located near both Stone Mountain and Pilot Mountain State Parks. Another way to enjoy the spring beauty is by traveling a short distance and taking a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. For those who would rather spend time on the water, the Yadkin River allows for kayaking, canoeing or trout fishing.

Now that winter has passed in NC, it’s a good time to consider what steps you can take to ensure your vehicles continue to run smoothly as we transition into spring and summer. Some of the ways to accomplish this are by checking and topping off your vehicle fluids, changing your oil (which should be done approximately every 5000 miles), having your tires rotated, and replacing your windshield wiper blades. While keeping your vehicle running is important, it is also vital to make sure your vehicle can come to a stop safely. 

What to do When it’s Time for Brake Service in Elkin, NC

There are a number of factors that can cause wear and tear on your brakes, including the following:

• Your driving habits- more aggressive drivers may find that their brakes wear out quickly.
• Operating conditions- these include the type of roads you typically use (highway vs. city), the weather, and your location.
• Type of vehicle- all vehicles are not created equally, and some brake systems are much more resilient and appropriate for certain operating conditions. The quality of the brake lining material also varies from one vehicle to another.

Usually, potential brake failure can be predicted. Here are some of the symptoms that might indicate you need to seek the help of a professional.

• Your car pulls to one side while you are braking
• Brake pedal pulsates when you press down 
• Brake pedal feels, “mushy”
• Noise can be heard when you apply the brakes (this could be a squeaking noise or a metal on metal sound)
• Repeatedly having to add brake fluid to the master cylinder 

Jody's Automotive is an ASE certified technician for a brake inspection. If you notice any of the aforementioned red flags, contact us and we can help get your brake system working properly. In addition to brake service, we offer a number of other routine maintenance services including full-service oil changes, NC inspections, tire rotations, air conditioning repairs and more.