Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service Buy Brake Parts

Disc brakes and drum brakes are the two types of automotive brakes that stop and slow your car while driving. Many cars manufactured since the 1980s also feature emergency brakes and anti-lock brakes. At Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service we know you depend on your brakes in Kalamazoo Twp during everyday driving and in emergencies. Service your brakes regularly to ensure the safety of you and your family. Come to Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service for brake parts.

Discover More Trustworthy Brake Parts

1. Disc Brakes:

Disc brakes are the most common brake type in use today. They consist of a brake rotor that is attached directly to the wheel. Using hydraulic pressure, the master cylinder causes a caliper holding your brake pads to close on either side of the rotor, causing the car or truck to slow or stop. Call Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service at 269-345-6153 to order your disc brake parts in Kalamazoo Twp today.

2. Drum Brakes:

Drum brakes use friction between a drum attached and two brake shoes to cause your car to slow and stop. When you press your brake pedal, hydraulic pressure presses the brake shoes against the brake drum. Call Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service at 269-345-6153 today to order your drum brakes in Kalamazoo Twp.

Do I have Disc Brakes Or Drum Brakes?
In the early '70s, car manufacturers switched from drum to disc brakes for the front brakes only because in high-performance cars the stopping power is contained mostly in the front wheels. Today, many manufacturers have adopted four-wheel disc brakes on many of their high performance and economy car models. However, there are still some new cars that utilize drum brakes for the rear of the car to lower production costs.

3. Emergency Brakes

Emergency brakes, sometimes called parking brakes, work independently of your car's braking system. Most emergency brakes are powered by cables which apply pressure to the wheels to keep them from rolling. They are generally used to keep a vehicle stationary while parked. Your emergency brake may be a stick lever between the driver and passenger, a third pedal, a push-button or handle near the steering column. Remember, if you live in an area where you park on a steep hill you cannot rely upon simply putting your car in "park." At Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service we know using and servicing your emergency brake is important to prevent your car from rolling away and damaging your car, other property or injuring bystanders. Call us today at 269-345-6153 for emergency brake parts.

4. Anti-Lock Brakes

Anti-lock brakes are disc brakes with an antilock braking system (ABS). They are found on newer cars and trucks and are most useful when driving on wet and slippery roads. If you apply your brakes suddenly the antilock braking system will prevent your car's wheels from skidding. Talk to us at Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service to determine the best way to service your anti-lock braking system.

When Should I Get My Brakes Fixed?

Call Otto Kihm Auto & Tire Service and order your brake parts right away if you diagnose any of these issues with a car or truck:

• Squealing or making a grinding noise
• Wobbling or noticeable vibrations when coming to a stop
• Leaking braking fluid
• Spongy or unresponsive brake pedal
• Burning smell when braking