6 Maintenance Tasks before a Road Trip

Keeping up with your oil change schedule is one of the simplest and most effective ways to maintain the health of your vehicle. Regular oil changes don’t just keep your engine running smoothly—they prevent costly repairs, extend your car’s lifespan, and improve performance. At Brake Masters, we provide expert oil changes in the greater Camarillo, CA area. Here are four reasons why following your oil change schedule is so important. Protects Engine Components Your engine has myriad moving parts that work together at high speeds, creating a lot of heat and friction. Fresh oil keeps these components lubricated, reducing wear and tear and enabling them to operate smoothly. Over time, oil breaks down and loses its lubricating properties, which can cause parts to grind against each other. By following your oil change schedule, you help keep your engine’s components protected and running efficiently. Improves Fuel-Efficiency Oil that’s old and dirty doesn’t lubricate engine components as well, which increases friction and forces the engine to work harder. The harder the engine works, the more fuel it uses. Keeping your oil fresh and clean reduces friction, so your engine doesn’t have to expend extra energy, ultimately leading to better gas mileage. Extends Engine Lifespan A well-lubricated and clean engine is less prone to wear and breakdowns. Following the oil change schedule can significantly extend your engine’s lifespan by minimizing the stress on its components. This means fewer repairs and reduced risk of major issues that could lead to engine failure. Keeping up with oil changes is a straightforward way to make your investment in your vehicle last as long as possible. Helps You Catch Other Maintenance Issues Early During an oil change, the mechanic will have a chance to take a look at some of your engine’s other components. This gives the mechanic a chance to spot potential problems, like leaks or wear, that could become major repairs if left unaddressed. Sticking to a regular oil change schedule isn’t just about the oil—it’s also a chance to stay ahead of other maintenance issues. Oil Change in Camarillo, CA When you need auto maintenance in Camarillo and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

A healthy braking system is critical for your safety on the road. As they age, brakes wear down and may start to show signs of trouble, putting you and others at risk. Recognizing early signs of brake issues is essential for preventing dangerous situations. At Brake Masters, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Camarillo area. Here are five signs of a brake problem. Squealing or Screeching Sounds If you hear a high-pitched squeal when you apply the brakes, it’s often a sign that the brake pads are wearing thin. Most modern vehicles have built-in wear indicators in the brake pads designed to make noise when it’s time for a replacement. Ignoring this sound can lead to further wear, potentially causing more expensive repairs. Vibrations When you press down on the brake pedal and feel a vibrating or pulsating sensation, this could indicate that your brake rotors are warped. Uneven rotors can cause inconsistent contact with the brake pads, leading to vibration. This should be addressed promptly to avoid worsening the condition. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal If your brake pedal feels soft or spongy when you press it, this is often a sign of air in the brake lines or a brake fluid leak. In either case, it reduces the effectiveness of your braking system, making it harder to stop your vehicle quickly. Leaking brake fluid is a major safety hazard. A soft brake pedal should be inspected immediately to avoid brake failure. Grinding Noise A grinding sound when braking is usually a sign that your brake pads have completely worn down, causing harsh metal-on-metal contact. This can lead to rotor damage, increasing the cost of repairs. If you hear grinding, it’s time to have your brakes inspected right away. Car Pulls to One Side If your vehicle pulls to one side when braking, this can signal a malfunctioning brake caliper. Obviously, this creates an immediate safety risk for you and others on the road, so it’s best to have your car towed to the shop if it has this issue. Brake Repair in Camarillo For brake repair in Camarillo and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. At our local auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

At Brake Masters, we strive to earn our customers’ satisfaction by providing top-quality repairs and maintenance at fair prices. No matter how big or small the job, our local mechanics will work meticulously to complete it to the highest standards. And we’re grateful when our customers offer feedback about the work that we did for them. Here’s a look at some of our latest customer reviews. “If you're looking for honest, fast, professional service, I definitely recommend BrakeMasters Camarillo! I just used them for the first time to have my brake pads replaced; as a single woman going to an auto repair shop, I mentally prepare myself (IYKYK), and I was VERY pleased to be treated with politeness, no upselling, extremely reasonable prices and being shown the work that was going to be done. I showed up at 8am on a Saturday, Ray the manager said he'd be done by 10:00...and they were finished by 9:30am. Since I stayed on-site, that made me extremely happy.” —Anna B. “I will continue to go there, I have never had anything but outstanding service in the years I have been a customer. My entire family brings their vehicles to the shop. The manager Ray Martinez is an outstanding leader and the location reflects his leadership, well done and we will be going there for years to come.” —Tom N. “We've been going to Brake Master's with our cars for over 10 years. We appreciate Steve and Ray. We can come to them with confidence that they will help or send us to the right place. Thankful for a mechanic shop we can depend on.” —Hilary E. “I drive A LOT for work. My brakes were in a bad way. My boyfriend heard great things about this place and we were not disappointed. Great solid service and my car is running great. Prices were reasonable.” —Shelly O. “Great service, staff is very attentive and friendly. Ray is always happy to help and he is very honest, understanding and supportive.” —Ruby’s Mexican Food “Always have had a great experience there. Very honest and reliable.” —Michael M. Auto Repair in Camarillo, CA When you need auto repair in Camarillo and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. Feel free to give us a call to schedule an appointment!

A well-functioning cooling system is crucial for keeping your engine at the right temperature. However, when a coolant leak occurs, it can lead to engine overheating and potentially costly damage. Being aware of the signs of a coolant leak can help you address the issue before it escalates. At Brake Masters, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Camarillo area. Here are five signs that you might have a coolant leak. Visible Coolant on the Ground One of the most obvious signs of a coolant leak is the presence of fluid under your vehicle. Coolant is commonly a bright green, orange, or pink liquid (yours may be a different color), making it easy to spot. If you notice a puddle or even small droplets of this fluid on your driveway, it’s a strong indication that there’s a leak somewhere in your cooling system. Low Coolant Levels If you frequently find that your coolant levels are low, despite regularly topping them off, this could signal a leak. For safety purposes, it’s important to remember that you should only check/add coolant when the engine has cooled off. Engine Overheating Your engine overheating is a serious sign that there’s a problem with your cooling system, and a coolant leak is often the culprit. If your engine temperature gauge rises above the normal range or if you see steam coming from under the hood, stop driving as soon as you can find a spot to safely pull over away from traffic. Continuing to drive with an overheating engine can cause severe damage, leading to expensive repairs. Sweet Smell from the Engine Bay Coolant has a distinctive sweet smell. If you notice this smell along with any of the other signs mentioned, it’s time to inspect your cooling system. White Smoke from the Exhaust White smoke billowing from the exhaust can be a sign that coolant is leaking internally, which is a serious issue. This could indicate a blown head gasket. If you notice white smoke along with a drop in coolant levels, you should have your vehicle inspected by the mechanic ASAP. Cooling System Repair in Camarillo, CA For auto repair in Camarillo, CA and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

When the check engine light comes on, it’s important to promptly visit the shop for diagnostics. While this light doesn’t automatically mean that your engine is on the verge of disaster, it’s best to identify and address the underlying issue before it gets the chance to escalate. At Brake Masters, we provide expert check engine light diagnostics and repair in the greater Camarillo, CA area. Here’s a look at five common check engine light triggers. Oxygen Sensor Malfunction Your car’s oxygen sensor measures the amount of unburned oxygen in the exhaust system. This data helps the car's computer regulate the air-fuel mixture entering the engine. A faulty oxygen sensor can lead to decreased fuel-efficiency and increased emissions. Replacing a bad sensor is important to maintain engine performance. Catalytic Converter Issues The catalytic converter reduces harmful emissions by converting harmful gasses into less harmful emissions. Symptoms of a failing catalytic converter include reduced engine performance and a smell similar to rotten eggs. Mass Air Flow Sensor Problems The mass air flow (MAF) sensor measures the amount of air entering the engine to ensure the correct air-fuel ratio. A malfunctioning MAF sensor can cause rough idling, poor fuel-economy, and engine stalling. Spark Plug or Ignition Coil Issues Spark plugs and ignition coils are vital for igniting the air-fuel mixture in the engine. Faulty spark plugs or ignition coils can cause misfires, leading to rough engine performance and poor fuel-efficiency. Replacing spark plugs and coils is a routine maintenance task that can prevent this issue. Loose or Faulty Gas Cap A loose, cracked, or missing gas cap can cause your check engine light to turn on. The gas cap seals the fuel system. If it isn’t properly fastened, fuel may evaporate before your engine is able to use it. Check Engine Light Repair in Camarillo, CA For auto repair in Camarillo, CA and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

For optimal safety on the road, it’s crucial that your brakes are in healthy condition. By being proactive, you can help to ensure that your brakes continue to work efficiently. At Brake Masters, we can conduct brake maintenance in Camarillo to keep your car’s braking system in great shape. Our local brake specialists will make sure that your car is capable of stopping smoothly and safely. Here’s a look at four tips for keeping your brakes healthy. Regular Inspections It’s smart to have your brakes checked every six months. Routine brake inspections are vital for catching any issues early on. Make it a habit to have the mechanic check your brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels regularly. Any issues should be addressed ASAP so that you’re not driving with a safety hazard. Listen for Warning Signs Vehicles often give audible clues when the brakes need attention. Squealing and grinding noises when applying the brakes could indicate worn brake pads or damaged rotors. These sounds should never be ignored. Addressing these issues early can prevent further damage and ensure your brakes operate smoothly. Brake Fluid Maintenance Brake fluid plays a crucial role in transferring force from the brake pedal to the components that slow your vehicle. As the miles add up, brake fluid can accumulate contaminants, reducing its effectiveness. It’s important to replace your brake fluid according to your vehicle manufacturer's recommendations. Commonly, it’s recommended that brake fluid is replaced every two to three years. Practice Gentle Driving Habits Your driving style significantly impacts brake health. Aggressive braking, such as slamming on the brakes or frequent hard stops, accelerates wear and tear on brake components. Instead, practice smooth and gradual braking, which is easier to do when you anticipate stops and maintain a safe following distance. Brake Service in Camarillo For brake repair and maintenance in Camarillo and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

A healthy suspension system is crucial for a smooth and safe ride. As soon as you suspect that suspension trouble is brewing, it’s best to alert the mechanic. At Brake Masters, we provide expert suspension repair in the greater Camarillo, CA area. Here’s a look at five common symptoms of a suspension problem. Excessive Bouncing A healthy suspension system should provide a smooth and controlled ride, absorbing bumps and vibrations from the road. If you notice excessive bouncing, it could be a sign that your shocks or struts are worn out. Worn shocks or struts can affect your vehicle's stability and handling, making it more difficult to control, especially over rough or uneven surfaces. Pulling or Drifting During Turns When your suspension system is compromised, you may experience pulling or drifting while turning. Faulty shocks, struts, or suspension bushings can lead to this issue, affecting your ability to navigate safely. Uneven Tire Wear If you notice that the tread on your tires is wearing down unevenly, it could indicate issues with your suspension system. Worn-out shocks or struts or damaged suspension components can contribute to uneven tire wear. Excessive Noise Unusual noises coming from your vehicle's suspension system should be brought to the mechanic’s attention. Squeaking, creaking, or knocking sounds when driving over bumps could suggest worn-out suspension components or loose connections. Ignoring these noises may lead to further damage and compromise your vehicle's safety. Visible Damage or Fluid Leaks It’s smart to periodically take a look at your suspension system to check for any signs of damage or fluid leaks. Look for leaking shock absorbers or struts, which can indicate internal damage and fluid loss. Also, check for bent or damaged suspension components. If you see any signs of failure, you should promptly schedule a professional inspection. Suspension Repair in Camarillo, CA When you need auto repair in Camarillo and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly handle your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!

At Brake Masters, we aim to earn our customers’ trust and respect by consistently providing top-quality repairs at fair rates. While we specialize in brakes, we also offer expertise with many other auto repair and maintenance services. Whether you need an oil change or more in-depth car care, we’ll work diligently to get the job done right the first time. And we appreciate it when our customers give feedback about their experiences with us. Here’s a look at some of our recent customer reviews. “I have to say this was one of the best experiences I've had getting my brakes done! They were very thorough, quick, & extremely friendly. I also had my oil changed & was impressed by the competitive pricing for the synthetic oil!” —Quentin D. “I've been taking vehicles here since I first moved to Camarillo in 2016. I started off with my 1987 Mazda 626 car. They have always been honest, forthright and I've never felt talked down to or like they were trying to rush me through anything. Always recommended repairs needed but with a priority level and a straight assessment of how urgently it would need to be done. Fast forward, I'm now a mom with a 5 year old driving a newer (2013) car and they're still the same folks: easy to work with, straight talking, honest and clear folks. They're always clear about their billing and what they can offer. I just feel so at ease continuing to bring my vehicle(s) here. Thanks BMC/Ray & Steve & Co.” —Susan C. “Absolutely honest. Quick and efficient. I'm definitely going back.” —Manuel W. “Honest, positive attitudes, quality work and quick service at reasonable cost. Brake service was performed faster than anticipated.” —Joe T. “I will come to Brake Masters for all of my service needs. It's rare to find an honest auto mechanic, but honesty and integrity are why this is a highly rated establishment. Not to mention, the quality of service is top notch. I dropped my truck off here on a weekday with limited notice and no appointment. I told them I needed an oil change and most likely a brake pad replacement. I received a call from the shop shortly after dropping off my truck, and they informed me that I still had life left on my brake pads. They could've easily changed the pads and charged me for the service, but they were honest and upfront with me. Brake Masters has earned my business for a long time to come.” —Sean W. Auto Repair in Camarillo, CA When you need auto repair in Camarillo and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. Feel free to give us a call today to schedule an appointment!

Brake problems can lead to dangerous situations and compromise overall road safety. This makes it very important to alert the mechanic when you first suspect that a brake issue is developing. At Brake Masters, we provide expert brake repair in the greater Camarillo, CA area. Here’s a look at five common symptoms of brake trouble. Squeaking or Squealing Noises One of the most common signs of brake trouble is a high-pitched squeaking or squealing noise when you apply the brakes. This sound is typically caused by wear indicators built into the brake pads. As the brake pads wear down, these sounds arise as warnings. Ignoring this sound can lead to costly damage and decreased braking efficiency. Grinding Sounds If you hear a grinding noise when you apply the brakes, it's a sign that the brake pads have worn down completely, and metal is now grinding against metal. This is a serious issue that compromises braking ability and risks damage to the brake rotors. Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal A soft or spongy brake pedal is often an indication of air in the brake lines, or it could point to a brake fluid leak. If your car is leaking brake fluid, you’ve got a major safety hazard and shouldn’t drive your car. Rather you should get towed to the shop. A firm and responsive brake pedal is vital for effective braking and overall vehicle control. Vibrations If you feel vibrations or shaking when applying the brakes, it could be a sign of uneven brake rotor wear. Uneven surfaces on the rotor can lead to inconsistent braking, causing the vibrations. Dashboard Warning Lights If your ABS light flashes on, it could indicate issues such as low brake fluid or faulty wheel speed sensors. Whenever a warning light illuminates, it’s important to bring it to the mechanic’s attention before the underlying issue gets worse. Brake Repair in Camarillo For brake repair in Camarillo and the surrounding area, contact Brake Masters at (805) 914-0312. At our nearby auto shop, we can expertly address your vehicle’s repair and maintenance needs. Feel free to give us a call today to make an appointment!