Brake Repair & Service
Looking for reliable brake repair in Thousand Oaks? At Gallardo's Automotive Service, we've been providing expert brake service to drivers in Thousand Oaks, Westlake Village, Moorpark, Newbury Park, and the surrounding Conejo Valley for over 20 years. Your safety is our top priority, and our ASE-certified technicians are here to ensure your brakes perform flawlessly.
Warning Signs You Need Brake Service
Don't wait until it's too late. If you notice any of these symptoms, schedule a brake inspection immediately:
- Squealing or squeaking sounds when braking – often indicates worn brake pads
- Grinding noise – metal-on-metal contact means pads are completely worn
- Soft or spongy brake pedal – could indicate air in brake lines or fluid leak
- Brake pedal goes to the floor – serious issue requiring immediate attention
- Vehicle pulls to one side when braking – uneven brake wear or caliper issue
- Vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal – warped rotors
- Burning smell while driving – overheated brakes or stuck caliper
- Brake warning light illuminated on dashboard
Our Comprehensive Brake Inspection
When you bring your vehicle to Gallardo's for a brake inspection, our technicians perform a thorough 25-point brake system evaluation:
What We Inspect
- Brake pad thickness – measured at multiple points for even wear
- Rotor condition – checked for thickness, warping, and scoring
- Brake calipers – inspected for proper operation and leaks
- Brake fluid level and condition – contaminated fluid reduces stopping power
- Brake lines and hoses – checked for cracks, leaks, and corrosion
- Master cylinder – verified for proper operation
- ABS sensors and modules – scanned for diagnostic trouble codes
- Parking brake – adjusted and tested for proper engagement
- Wheel bearings – inspected while wheels are removed
How Our Brake Diagnostics Work
Modern vehicles use sophisticated ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control systems. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment connects directly to your vehicle's computer to:
- Read and interpret brake system fault codes
- Test ABS sensor signals in real-time
- Verify proper communication between brake modules
- Identify electrical issues in the brake system
Brake Services We Provide
Disc Brakes
Most modern vehicles use disc brakes on all four wheels or at minimum on the front wheels. If you're hearing unusual sounds when you brake or if your brake pedal feels squishy or too hard, we'll perform a complete disc brake inspection and provide honest recommendations.
Drum Brakes
Some vehicles have disc brakes on the front and drum brakes on the rear. Our thorough inspection covers both systems, including brake shoes, wheel cylinders, and hardware. We'll identify any maintenance or repair issues to keep you stopping safely.
Brake Fluid Flush
Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, reducing its effectiveness. We recommend a brake fluid flush every 2-3 years or 30,000 miles to maintain optimal braking performance.
What to Expect: Timeframes & Pricing
| Service | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Brake Inspection | 30-45 minutes |
| Brake Pad Replacement | 1-2 hours |
| Brake Pads & Rotors | 2-3 hours |
| Complete Brake System Overhaul | Half day (same-day service available) |
We provide upfront, transparent pricing before any work begins. No surprises!
The Gallardo's Advantage
When you choose Gallardo's Automotive for your brake repair in Thousand Oaks, you get:
- FREE brake inspection with any service
- Written estimates before work begins
- OEM-quality or better parts – we never use cheap knockoffs
- Nationwide warranty on parts and labor
- Same-day service available for most brake repairs
- Loaner vehicles available for extended repairs
- Financing options through our special financing program
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have my brakes inspected?
We recommend a brake inspection every 12,000 miles or with every tire rotation. However, if you notice any warning signs, don't wait – schedule an inspection immediately.
How long do brake pads last?
Brake pad life varies based on driving habits, vehicle type, and conditions. Typically, brake pads last 25,000-65,000 miles. City driving with frequent stops wears pads faster than highway driving.
Can I drive with worn brakes?
Driving with worn brakes is dangerous and can cause additional damage. Metal-on-metal contact will score your rotors, turning a $200 brake pad job into an $800 rotor replacement. More importantly, your stopping distance increases significantly, putting you and others at risk.
Do you work on all vehicle makes and models?
Yes! Our ASE-certified technicians service all makes and models, including domestic, Asian, and European vehicles. We have specialized equipment for BMW, Mercedes, Audi, and other European brake systems.
Serving the Conejo Valley & Ventura County
Gallardo's Automotive Service is conveniently located in Thousand Oaks, providing brake repair and service to:
- Thousand Oaks
- Westlake Village
- Newbury Park
- Moorpark
- Agoura Hills
- Oak Park
- Camarillo
- Simi Valley
I want to hear from you if you have any questions, or are not satisfied with any part of the service experience. Please call us at (805) 494-9358 if you need an appointment, or to let me know about the quality of your experience. It's my goal and responsibility to provide you with the very best brake service possible!
At Gallardo's Automotive Service, your complete automotive care center in Thousand Oaks, CA, we install only quality replacement parts. Give us a call and let us help keep you safely and economically on the road.
