Brakes really aren't optional equipment for Fort Wayne drivers. And taking care of them isn't optional either.

A regular brake inspection is on every IN car's maintenance schedule. At Tuffy Fort Wayne - Dupont Rd. , our team will check your brake system and let you know if there are any essential problems. Of course, if you're having trouble with your brakes, get your car into your Fort Wayne or Auburn service center right away. And watch out for these problems:

• Low or spongy brake pedal
• Hard brake pedal
• A brake warning light that stays on
• Constantly squealing or grinding brakes
• Vibrations or clunking sounds when you apply your brakes

There are two types of brakes: disc and drum. Disc brakes have a rotor that's attached to the axle. Calipers straddle the rotor, kind of like the brakes on a bicycle. Drum brakes are more common on back wheels. Pads, called shoes, push against the inside of the drum to slow the vehicle.

There are several things that need to be serviced on the brake system. First, the brake pads and shoes wear out with use, and become too thin to really help. If the brake pads wear away completely you can damage the rotors. The calipers can grind grooves in the rotor. Then the rotor must either be resurfaced or replaced and that can be pricey. But putting it off is dangerous because your SUV won't stop as quickly. Sometimes rotors warp or crack and must be replaced.

Brake fluid is also essential. When the brakes are applied, the pressure in the fluid activates the brake pads or shoes. Not enough fluid, not enough pressure to brake properly. Also, water builds up in the brake fluid over time, which leads to corrosion, leaks and harmful brake damage, and with hard use, the brakes could severely fade or even fail. Fort Wayne auto owners should change the brake fluid when their auto manufacturer recommends it.

There are different grades of brake pads sold in the Fort Wayne area. There are regular, metallic and ceramic - higher grades are more costly, but give better braking performance and smoother operation. It's OK to upgrade your brake pads. But, never use a grade that's lower than what the vehicle manufacturer recommends.

Be sure to properly maintain your brakes because it's a lot cheaper than paying your nearest Fort Wayne area body shop after an accident.