Healthy brakes are essential for optimal safety. They allow you to stop quickly, handle sudden obstacles, and drive with confidence. Over time, brake components naturally wear down, but with consistent care, you can keep your braking system operating at its best. At Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center, we provide expert brake service in the greater Plymouth, MI area. By following a few simple maintenance habits, you can ensure your brakes stay responsive and reliable for many miles to come. Schedule Routine Brake Inspections Regular inspections are one of the most effective ways to maintain braking performance. During an inspection, the mechanic can check your brake pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid for wear or damage. Even if your brakes feel fine, hidden issues like uneven wear or minor leaks can develop over time. Having your brakes inspected at least once a year—or whenever you notice unusual noises or sensations—helps catch problems early before they become serious or more expensive to repair. Maintain Proper Brake Fluid Levels Brake fluid is essential for transferring force from the pedal to the brake components. Over time, moisture can enter the system, reducing the fluid’s effectiveness and causing internal corrosion. It’s important to check the fluid regularly and have it completely flushed and replaced according to your manufacturer’s recommended schedule to promote maximum responsiveness. Replace Brake Pads Before They’re Worn Out Brake pads gradually wear down as they create friction to slow your vehicle. Once they become too thin, they can’t provide proper stopping power and may damage the rotors. If you hear squealing or grinding, it’s probably time for a replacement. Keeping fresh brake pads installed enables consistent performance and protects other parts of your braking system from unnecessary wear. Pay Attention to Warning Signs of a Problem Strange noises, soft pedals, and illuminated warning lights are clear indications that your brakes need attention. Addressing these symptoms promptly prevents further damage and helps ensure your safety. Ignoring warning signs can lead to more extensive repairs and unsafe driving conditions. Brake Service in Plymouth, MI When you need brake service in Plymouth, MI and the surrounding area, contact Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center at  (734) 404-7625  . Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

A healthy automatic transmission is one of our vehicle’s most vital components, providing smooth gear shifts and reliable performance on the road. But when transmission problems arise, they can quickly escalate into increasingly costly repairs or even leave you stranded. Recognizing early warning signs of transmission trouble can help you address issues before they become serious. At Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center, we provide expert transmission repair in the greater Plymouth, MI area. Here are four common signs that your automatic transmission may need repairs. Slipping Gears If your vehicle unexpectedly slips out of gear while driving, or if it struggles to stay in the right gear, it’s a strong indication of transmission trouble. This slipping not only makes driving unpredictable but also creates a serious safety hazard. A transmission that cannot maintain proper gear engagement may be dealing with worn-out gears, low fluid levels, or internal mechanical issues. Delayed/Rough Shifting Your car should shift smoothly and almost unnoticeably. If you experience hesitation when the transmission shifts, or if the shifting feels jerky, it points to a problem. Delayed or rough shifting may be caused by issues like damaged solenoids or deteriorating transmission fluid that can no longer provide the necessary lubrication and pressure. Strange Noises Unusual sounds coming from your transmission—such as whining, grinding, or clunking—should never be ignored. These noises often suggest that something is wrong with internal components. Transmission fluid that is old or contaminated can also cause metal-on-metal contact, leading to worrisome noises. Fluid Leaks Transmission fluid is essential for keeping the system cool and lubricated. If you notice reddish fluid pooling under your vehicle, it’s a sign of a leak. Even a small fluid leak can reduce the transmission’s ability to function properly, leading to overheating and eventual breakdown. Addressing leaks early can prevent major repairs later. Automatic Transmission Repair in Plymouth, MI When you need transmission repair in Plymouth, MI and the surrounding area, contact Auto-Lab Complete Car Care Center at  (734) 404-7625  . At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!