February 2022

BY Colin Cottrell, Marketing Director, LKQ Euro Car Parts W inter is one of the busiest times of year for brake checks. As temperatures drop, and as roads are treated for icy conditions, salt and grit can easily kick up into braking systems, causing piston seizures and meaning calipers need to be replaced. Now, as vehicle use is increasing, the rust that built up over periods of little-to-no use in lockdown, known as stiction, will take its toll on brake pads and discs, resulting in premature wear. This means garages are looking at a perfect storm on the brake front, and technicians should be prepared for a busy winter of servicing and checks. There are a few key areas garages should focus on, to ensure every vehicle that comes through the workshop doors leaves with its brakes in top condition, and to ensure this key revenue driver is maximised. Visual check: Quick win Often, a quick visual check can help technicians diagnose brake problems instantly. Stiction, for example, can be identified straight away, and it is easy to point out to customers, allowing garages to recommend any required part replacements there and then. We advise that 24 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2022 TECHNICAL www.aftermarketonline.net WINTER BRAKE CHECKS: LET’S GET BUSY After lockdown under-use in 2020 and early 2021, get ready for a busy winter of brake checks technicians do this as standard whenever a vehicle comes into the workshop. This will maximise revenue, and ensure every vehicle leaves with safe and properly functioning brakes. Other visible signs of wear can also point to potential brake issues. Uneven wear or compromised piston seals, for example, could point to damaged or blocked pistons, which would require a caliper replacement. In this event, technicians should recommend a full brake inspection, to prevent any existing problems from getting worse, and to help their customers stay safe on the road. Talk to customers There are a number of tell-tale signs that drivers may have experienced at the wheel, that point to brake issues. Asking your customers if they have noticed anything unusual while braking, such as judder or vibrations, can help you diagnose potential problems and recommend the best solution. It is also worth checking when customers last had a brake fluid change. Brake fluid is hydroscopic, meaning it takes on water over time and therefore needs regular checks and changes