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By NAPA
The Latest in EV Brake Technology
Advances in electric vehicle systems are happening at record speed. Entire components are getting eliminated. What was once old is new again. But the NAPA experts are warning customers not to get ahead of themselves. Let’s slow down, stop spinning our wheels from all this momentum and start with the basics.
How do brakes work on an electric car? Almost all personal vehicles use disc brakes containing a pair of
link hidden, please login to view attached to a link hidden, please login to view, which squeezes the disc to generate friction and slow the wheel’s rotation. Electric cars utilize these standard mechanical brakes in cases of low speed and sudden emergency braking. In addition, an electric car brake system (found in hybrids, plug-in hybrids and full EVs) incorporates regenerative braking. Many consumers are familiar with brakes on electric cars because of the popularity in the past decade of the
link hidden, please login to view, which uses regenerative braking to deliver better fuel economy. Electric car brakes (regenerative brakes) capture the energy output (propulsion power) when a vehicle is slowing down, turning the electric motor into a generator for the battery pack. In more technical terms, the brake system in a hybrid or electric vehicle applies reverse current to the motor, which opens the charging circuit. The EV’s computer system determines the amount of ‘brake’ getting applied from the backward running motor, thus decreasing the speed until the vehicle comes to a stop. In a fully electric vehicle, this controlled braking extends the travel range by replenishing the battery system. As much as 90% of everyday braking is operated by this electric power switch. The hydraulic system (aggressively depressing the brake pedal to activate brake pads) is only necessary at speeds under 3 mph (when there isn’t enough energy momentum to transfer) or at high speeds with sudden emergency braking.
This ‘brake-through’ technology has created challenges when it comes to a seamless transition between regeneration and foundation braking. To create an unnoticeable transition with no rough jitters or jumping,
link hidden, please login to view developed algorithms for their new Taycan model that constantly monitor the friction brake system so that the regenerative brakes create matching pressure. Similarly, the design of the Porsche Taycan also tackles the unequal distribution of braking power between the vehicle’s two axles. Two thirds of stopping power is provided by the front axle. This means the front brakes capture 60 to 80 percent of a slowing vehicle’s momentum compared to the rear battery generator. Learn more about leveraging braking force between the axles in the January 2023 article by ElectricCarsReport,
link hidden, please login to view. The Future of EVs Might Involve Reaching Into the Past
For many decades, the advancements in brake systems have relied on improvements made to an isolated system. But with the expansion of consumer EVs, braking systems are now interconnected to the battery, powertrain and electronic conduction involved in deceleration. The way electric brake systems function has actually pushed car designers to reconsider an ‘outdated’ technology,
link hidden, please login to view. At one time, brake drums were the standard on personal vehicles until the invention of disc brake systems, which provided quicker stopping force. Because EVs require less engagement of mechanical brakes, especially on the rear axle, these newer vehicles run the risk of failing discs due to corrosion and rust from lack of use. This has generated renewed interest in rear axle drum brakes, which are sealed off from road and weather conditions. Learn more about why old-school drum brake technology is possibly the way of the future for compact commuter EVs in congested cities with
link hidden, please login to view. Because regenerative braking redirects the energy involved in stopping the vehicle, the lack of friction reduces the thermal load on your brakes and brake pads. This has led vehicle manufacturers to consider using thinner materials (like aluminum combined with cast iron) in brake pads, calipers and discs, which in turn makes EVs lighter weight and more energy efficient (longer runtime on a full battery). For a brake drum, this thinning can result in a 30% decrease in mass. However, in traditional brake systems, that large mass is required to absorb heat. So, the determining factor in using old tech for new EVs comes down to retaining enough resistance to heat-related brake fade.
Stop by NAPA Auto Care for EV Brake Maintenance
Now let’s talk about replacing EV brake pads and other components. Although mechanical brakes on a hybrid or EV are only relied on for quick, complete stopping, these components are still vital because regenerative systems are not designed for emergency braking or firmly holding a vehicle still. Relying on the motor to handle declaration does mean that brake pads for electric vehicles don’t wear out as quickly as full hydraulic brake systems on gasoline-powered combustion vehicles.
However, because they are used less (yet still exposed to moisture and grime), it is critical to ensure your EV brake pads are in good shape. This means routine maintenance and periodic cleaning every year versus wear-related replacement. For example, Tesla recommends cleaning and lubricating the brake calipers on a Model 3 once a year (or every 12,500 miles) for those who live in an area that uses road salt.
It is also true that fully electric cars do not require oil changes, exhaust inspections or spark plug replacement. But these prized vehicles still need brake system care, such as checking the brake fluid at least every two years. Dirty brake fluid needs a full brake system flush to prevent it from harming expensive auto parts. When in doubt, take your vehicle to
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By NAPA
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Your
link hidden, please login to view is one of the most important liquids in your vehicle. Brake fluid is what transmits your foot’s movement of pressing on the brake pedal into movement of the friction material at the wheel. It is rarely seen unless you check their brake fluid level or are unlucky enough to have a brake system leak. But your brake fluid is not immortal and needs changed just like any other automotive fluid. Your owner’s manual lists how often to flush brake fluid for a reason, so let’s take a look at how to flush brake fluid. Why Flush Fluid Brake Fluid?
Just like every other automotive fluid, brake fluid changes as time passes. In the case of brake fluid, it gets contaminated.
link hidden, please login to view is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs water. That’s bad because if the water content in the brake fluid gets too high, it might boil under heavy braking. Brake fluid can also become contaminated with rust and copper. Brake Fluid Flush Preparation
Before starting a brake flush, you need to take these first no matter which type of brake flush method you choose:
Turn off the ignition of the vehicle. Using a vacuum bulb or similar siphon, remove almost all of the old brake fluid from the brake fluid reservoir. Leave a shallow puddle of it to prevent air from entering the brake system. Top off the brake reservoir with fresh brake fluid. Lift the vehicle off the ground and support it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle that is only supported by a jack. A jack is a lifting device only, a jack stand is a support device. Remove the tires and wheels. If possible, remove all four wheels, but you may also flush one wheel at a time. Place a drain pan under each wheel that you flush to catch the brake fluid as it drips. Once these steps are completed, you can move on to the brake flush method of your choice.
Gravity Brake Flush
With this method you let gravity do all the work. The tradeoff is that it takes more time than any other method.
Open the brake bleeder valve on each wheel The brake fluid will drip from the open bleeder valves Keep the brake reservoir filled with fresh brake fluid Wait for the fluid dripping from the bleeder valve to run clear (this may take more than an hour) Once the brake fluid runs clear, close the bleeder valve Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary Manual Brake Flush
This is the method most people think of when bleeding or flushing brakes. One person sits in the driver’s seat working the brake pedal while another person opens up the bleeder valves.
Have an assistant sit in the driver’s seat Choose a wheel and locate the brake bleeder valve Ask the assistant to pump the brake pedal three times and then hold it down Open the brake bleeder valve to release the pressurized fluid Close the brake bleeder valve Check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off with fresh fluid if necessary Repeat steps 3–6 until the fluid is clear Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary Pressure Brake Flush
Pressure brake fluid tools have become increasingly popular. This brake fluid flush tool uses pressurized air to push brake fluid through the system.
Read the instructions included with the pressure brake fluid tool Fill the pressure brake fluid tool with fresh brake fluid as directed in the tool instructions Attach the pressure adapter to the brake fluid reservoir Pressurize the tool as directed in the tool instructions Open the brake bleeder valve to release the pressurized fluid, and allow the fluid to flow until it is clear Close the brake bleeder valve Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary Vacuum Brake Flush
As the name implies, this method uses a vacuum tool to pull brake fluid through the system. It is usually part of a
link hidden, please login to view that includes a brake fluid catch bottle. Read the instructions included with the vacuum brake fluid tool Attach the vacuum brake fluid tool to the brake bleeder valve Pump the vacuum brake fluid tool to create vacuum at the brake bleeder valve Open the brake bleeder valve to begin pulling brake fluid through the system Allow the brake fluid to flow until it is clear Close the brake bleeder valve Check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off with fresh fluid if necessary Repeat steps 3–7 until the fluid is clear Top off the brake fluid reservoir if necessary Regardless of which
link hidden, please login to view you choose, the goal is to replace as much old fluid as possible. You will likely use more brake fluid than you expect, but considering the long service interval, it is worth using a bit more fluid just to make certain. There is no difference between a brake fluid change vs. flush, they are the same process with the same goal: new brake fluid. The cost to flush brake fluid depends on who is doing the work. A DIY brake flush at home will only cost you the price of a few bottles of brake fluid, but a professional brake fluid flush using specialized equipment will likely put the cost at more than $100.
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link hidden, please login to view available on link hidden, please login to view or trust one of our 17,000 link hidden, please login to view for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to do a brake fluid flush and a typical brake fluid flush price, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your link hidden, please login to view. You Might Need These
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By NAPA
A sunroof is a wonderful feature to have in a vehicle. You get the open air feeling of a convertible with the weather protection of a hard top. But what happens when that sunroof begins to let the weather inside?
link hidden, please login to view are the results. Unfortunately a leaky sunroof is an all too common problem, but the solution is sometimes quite simple. Here’s how to identify and fix a leaky sunroof. Identifying a Sunroof Leak
Obviously if you are sitting in your car when it rains and water starts pouring from the area around the sunroof, you have a leak. But sometimes the leaks aren’t so obvious. You may notice water on the floorboard or wet carpet. A sunroof leak can let water flow through interior panels like the headliner and pillar panels where it is unseen. If you’ve ruled out a clogged AC drain or leaky door seals, you may have a sunroof leak on your hands.
Sunroof Leak Causes
You can track down most sunroof leaks to these common issues:
Clogged Sunroof Drain
One of the most common causes of a car sunroof leaking is simply a clogged drain. For many vehicles the area around the sunroof opening has a raised edge to catch any water that may get past the main sunroof seal. It is basically a drain pan with a sunroof sized hole in the middle. Water is supposed to flow from the catch pan into drain hoses (usually in the corners of the sunroof opening), which are routed through the body of the car and to the ground. As time passes, debris like leaves and dirt can find their way into the drain openings and clog the drain tubes. Once the drain tubes are clogged, the area around the sunroof will fill with water and spill over into the interior.
Damaged Sunroof Seal
The first line of defense against water is the seal around the sunroof panel itself. While most seals are not designed to completely stop water from getting into the area around the sunroof opening, the seal does hold back a fair amount of water from entering. Sun and heat can eventually damage the seal causing it to dry out, crack, deform or wear down at any areas that contact the body. When this seal is seriously compromised, too much water can get in and overwhelm the sunroof drains.
Damaged Mechanism
Your sunroof mechanism is a complex component that must both slide and lift/lower your sunroof panel in and out of position. It relies on
link hidden, please login to view working in perfect harmony. The sunroof track itself is also precisely designed for smooth movement and solid placement of the sunroof panel. If any of these parts are damaged, worn or misaligned, the sunroof panel will not move to the desired position. Often a sunroof motor will break and leave the sunroof open, making for a frantic manual override to keep out the weather. But the sunroof may also appear to function properly while not moving to the correct closed position. If this happens, there is possibly a gap between the sunroof seal. The sunroof panel may also not close flush with the roof causing a channel for water to travel. How to Fix a Leaking Sunroof link hidden, please login to view
Once you have investigated your sunroof leak and found the culprit, it is time to learn how to fix a leaky sunroof.
Cleaning the sunroof drains is the simplest car sunroof leak repair. Locate the sunroof drains. There is a potential of up to four drains depending on the vehicle with some not easily visible. Referencing a
link hidden, please login to view can help you find all the drain locations. It is tempting to grab a compressed air hose and blow out the drain tubes, but that is a mistake. Blowing compressed air into a clogged tube can cause the tube to pop off an internal connection leading to a time-consuming interior panel disassembly. The simplest method for clearing a sunroof drain is with a piece of link hidden, please login to view. String trimmer line is stiff enough to push through a blockage while also following the drain tube twists and turns. Now you can move onto your leaking sunroof repair: Dip the tip of the trimmer line in dish soap to help it slide along the drain tube. Feed the trimmer line into the drain tube opening feeling for any resistance. When resistance is felt, push gently on the trimmer line, then pull back gently. Move the trimmer line in and out of the tube until the clog is no longer felt. Remove the trimmer line and pour a small amount of water down the drain tube. The water should exit underneath the vehicle. If the water does not flow out, repeat the trimmer line technique until all clogs are removed. If the drain tubes are clear, turn your attention to the sunroof itself and the mechanism.
link hidden, please login to view with a soft cloth and apply silicone lubricant spray to help it stay flexible. Observe how the sunroof moves while it opens and closes, noting any places where it stutters or does not move smoothly. If the movement is not smooth give the sunroof panel tracks a spray with the same silicone lubricant spray. If the sunroof does not close flush with the roof panel, it may need an adjustment. If there is no time for proper repairs, a temporary fix for leaking sunroof problems is to simply seal it shut. Good quality
link hidden, please login to view works just fine. Masking tape will hold through a rainstorm while you make plans for an adequate car sunroof leak repair. Masking tape also releases easily and reduces the chance of harming your vehicle’s finish. Once the sunroof is taped shut, you can place a piece of masking tape over the sunroof button to remind yourself not to use it. Sunroof Leak Repair Costs
So how much does it cost to fix a leaking sunroof? If you are a DIYer with a stocked garage, the cost of repair is possibly only your time for something simple like a clogged drain. But if the issue is more serious, the sunroof leak repair cost could reach into the hundreds or even thousands. Modern vehicles with panoramic sunroof panels are wonderful for feeling the sun on the road, but these are very complex mechanisms. A leak in one of these mammoth panels could take hours for a technician to repair.
You may wonder if car insurance covers leaking sunroof issues, and the answer is “maybe” depending on your insurance coverage. Read your insurance policy carefully, consult with your insurance agent and weigh the cost of your deductible. In some cases, damage caused by a sunroof leak is covered by insurance, but the likelihood is small.
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link hidden, please login to view available on link hidden, please login to view, or trust one of our 17,000 link hidden, please login to view for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on how to fix a leaky sunroof or figuring out how much does it cost to fix a leaking sunroof, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your link hidden, please login to view. Photo courtesy of
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By NAPA
What to Expect from Your Brake Service with NAPA Auto Care
There are more than 285 million vehicles registered in the United States today. The average vehicle on the road is 12 years old. And, it is estimated that more than 51 million commuter vehicles are in need of brake service and repair. This is a concerning number considering antilock brakes are the most important safety system in a car, truck, van or SUV. That’s why the experts at NAPA recommend having your brakes inspected as often as twice a year for wear and damage. If a small issue is caught early, this routine maintenance can save you from a much more intense, costly repair.
Depending on your make and model, the quality of your OEM parts, the climate in which you live and your driving habits, your brake pads should last between 20,000 and 80,000 miles. Additionally, you should have your brake fluid flushed and replaced every two to five years. Because these ranges are vast, NAPA recommends a routine brake inspection every 10,000 to 12,000 miles as part of your yearly vehicle maintenance.
A leak in your brake system, often caused by contamination and corrosion, could dampen or even prevent your stopping power. The right amount of
link hidden, please login to view is essential for the proper function of anti-lock brakes, traction control and stability control systems. Replacement link hidden, please login to view include the master cylinder and valves, which determine the pressure applied to both the front and rear brakes, brake pads that protect your expensive disc rotors and brake lines that carry critical fluid. More than 17,000
link hidden, please login to view nationwide are committed to diagnosing a wide range of automotive problems and fixing them right the first time. NAPA Auto Care centers are known for reliable service performed by ASE-certified technicians and specialist mechanics. This NAPA standard for trusted car and truck repair has grown for more than 80 years across these local, independently owned auto shops and collision centers. Our promise to NAPA customers is to perform high-quality diagnostic and repair services by installing superior link hidden, please login to view. Check out NAPA’s free nationwide Two-Year/24,000 Mile link hidden, please login to view, which covers parts and labor on qualifying repairs and services across The NAPA Network. If You’ve Reached The Breaking Point, Head to NAPA link hidden, please login to view
There are many reasons why you need brake service. Powerful friction wears out even the best
link hidden, please login to view and intense heat can warp link hidden, please login to view. Air getting into a brake line is a common issue. Your link hidden, please login to view will measure the vehicle’s brake fluid level during a full-service oil change. But what if you are experiencing a noticeable problem, such as a squealing noise or a change in brake responsiveness? A standard brake inspection at a NAPA Auto Care center could include:
Brake pad or brake shoe replacement Brake rotor resurfacing or brake drum turning Brake rotor or drum replacement Brake fluid flushing Brake line leak repair Brake light diagnosis Keep in mind, brake services are duplicated on both wheels of the same axle. Multiple systems in your vehicle are designed for the parts on both sides of your vehicle to operate in matching condition.
After any inspection, the NAPA technician should thoroughly explain your vehicle’s condition. This includes documenting what problems are urgent and what repairs you can delay. If the damaged part no longer performs as designed, the repair is considered necessary. For instance, a cracked rotor requires replacement, so a less expensive ‘fix’ like a new brake pad is an unsafe repair in this case.
A NAPA Auto Care service technician can also make recommendations that are not critical. This includes proactively replacing parts likely to fail in less than a year. Your trusted mechanic should also advise you on maintenance recommended by the vehicle’s manufacturer. And, an inspection might include improvements that you can make with an aftermarket part upgrade to enhance performance, such as installing
link hidden, please login to view. With NAPA, you are always in good hands. Still, it is always best practice to do a little research before arriving at any auto body shop. Use the
link hidden, please login to view to instantly find out what your auto repair or service should cost at a NAPA Auto Care center. This competitive pricing tool provides quick and easy cost estimates for the most common repairs. Image courtesy of
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