Working Hours
  • Mon 8:00AM - 5:30PM
    Tue 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Wed 8:00AM - 5:30PM
    Thu 8:00AM - 5:30PM
  • Fri 8:00AM - 5:30PM
    Sat Closed
  • Sun Closed
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573-449-4171 | 1204 N College Ave Columbia, MO 65201

BRAKES & BRAKE REPAIR

If you need brake maintenance or repair, Walt's Service Inc. can take care of your needs quickly and affordably. Call us at 573-449-4171 or visit us in Columbia and we'll inspect your vehicle, provide cost-effective recommendations and get your vehicle up and running smoothly. Your brakes are a vital safety feature, so if you're unsure of their integrity, please get in touch with us right away!

Anti-Lock Brake System
The Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) ensures your wheels keep rotating during braking, preventing skidding and providing better control. If your ABS light illuminates, visit Walt's Service Inc. for a diagnosis and professional repair.

Brake Fluid Flushes
Brake fluid can absorb moisture from the air over time, diminishing brake effectiveness and becoming corrosive, potentially harming the system. Regular brake fluid flushes are vital to ensure fresh fluid usage in your vehicle. Consult our technicians at Walt's Service Inc. to determine the right time for a brake fluid flush.

Brake Hoses
A brake hose carries pressurized brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes. A damaged hose can lead to delayed or weak braking, and a leak may result in brake failure. While the need for a replacement brake hose isn't common, any signs of cracking or wear should prompt immediate replacement.

Brake Pad & Shoe Replacement
Squealing brakes often indicate brake pad issues. When brake pads deteriorate completely, a harsh metal-on-metal grinding noise occurs during braking, indicating potential rotor or drum damage. Although experienced individuals may attempt home repairs, if you have brake concerns, it's best to consult an auto repair professional promptly.

Caliper Replacement
The brake caliper houses brake pads and clamps around the rotor to apply pressure during braking. Caliper problems can cause uneven braking, leading to skidding during braking and loss of control in adverse weather conditions. Contact Walt's Service Inc. in Columbia at your earliest convenience for assistance.

Resurface Rotors
In a disc brake system, rotors attach to your vehicle's wheels. The friction with brake pads over time creates grooves and cracks. The process of resurfacing restores rotors to a "like-new" condition, reducing noise and wobbling. At Walt's Service Inc., we inspect your rotors thoroughly and recommend the best course of action.

FAQs About Brakes


Why are my brakes making a grinding noise?

A grinding sound from your brakes often signals that they're severely worn and require immediate attention. This noise typically means the brake pads have worn down to the rotors.

Why are my brakes squeaking?

Squeaking brakes can result from small stones or debris caught in the pads, or it may indicate that the pads are wearing thin. It's a sign that your brakes might need inspection or replacement.

Why are my brakes making a burning smell?

A burning smell from your brakes can occur if they overheat from excessive use. If you notice a chemical odor or smoke, pull over safely and allow the brakes to cool to avoid further damage.

Why are my brakes vibrating?

Vibration when braking usually points to an issue with uneven rotor surfaces. Over time, rotors can wear unevenly, causing vibrations through the steering wheel when you apply the brakes.

How do I know if my car is leaking brake fluid?

A decrease in braking performance or a spongy feel in the brake pedal could indicate a brake fluid leak. It's critical to address any brake fluid leaks immediately to maintain vehicle safety.

Why is my dashboard brake light on?

The brake light on your dashboard may indicate it's time for brake service or signal an issue. Visit Walt's Service Inc. for a precise diagnosis and prompt resolution.

What are the 3 signs that brake pads are worn?

Common signs of worn brake pads include squeaking noises, grinding sounds, and the brake warning light illuminating on your dashboard.

What is the 30-30-30 rule for brakes?

The 30-30-30 rule suggests breaking in new brake pads with 30 gentle stops from 30 mph, allowing 30 seconds between each to prevent overheating and to help the pads cure properly.

What percent of brake pad life is 3mm?

New brake pads typically start at 8 to 12 mm thick. At 3 mm, your brake pads are near the end of their lifespan, having covered about 40,000 miles. It's advisable to replace them soon to maintain braking efficiency.

What are the 3 types of brake pads?

The three primary types of brake pads are non-asbestos organic, ceramic, and semi-metallic. Each type offers different benefits concerning performance, wear, and noise.

Why is my car pulling to one side when I am braking?

If your car veers to one side when braking, it could be due to a stuck caliper or a collapsed brake hose, causing uneven braking pressure. This should be inspected and repaired to ensure safe driving.


To learn more about our Brake services, call us at 573-449-4171 or request a quote by clicking below:


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What Our Customers Are Saying

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Was driving from NY to LA when my Bus started dying on the highway. Lookup the nearest VW mechanic and come here. Walt is great! He took a look at my Bus, even though it was late and he was busy-and told me the last guy who rebuilt the engine screwed up. I trusted Walt to rebuild the engine, and he did it cheaper and quicker than the first mechanic, and much better! I now have 10-15mph higher top speed and it runs a lot smoother. Driving from MO to LA I went from losing 1qt/1000 miles to losing no oil! Superb job, honest guy, nobody knows more about air-cooled VWs than he.

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My daughter, a MU student, and her used 2007 high mileage Audi A4 broke down, the car was towed to Walt's. Walt called me the next day and went over his diagnostics and recommendations. He only recommended what needed to be done and did not recommend useless/costly repairs. When the car was complete, he called me with the final bill which was totally reasonable. He was timely and great to work with! I highly recommend this repair shop, it is so hard to find honest and qualified technicians and mechanics these days and Walt is truly one of the best I have ever worked with. I will definitely be back, thank you so much!

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I have an old (2001) high mileage (155k+) VW Golf, and I only take it to Walt's. The staff is friendly, honest, fair, and fairly quick with repairs. They give you options and explain the pros and cons of optional repairs. They keep my old Golf running well, with fair costs for repairs. I would (and have) recommended to anyone with a VW or similar German car.

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I had my MINI Cooper serviced here. These guys are great. They showed me everything about my car (as I know nothing about cars). The Baron MINI in Kansas City told me I needed new front and back brakes and rotors. After showing me how much brake pad I had left on the back brakes, the guy at Walt's said "that's nuts and these should last at least another year". They also did quality work and cost a couple hundred bucks less! I am very pleased!

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I would not take my car anywhere else. They are honest, friendly and work with you to make the best/most cost effective repair solutions.

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Great people and service. They went above and beyond in order to help me resolve a problem with my 2011 Audi S5. Definitely plan on going back.

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  • Call Us For Service: 573-449-4171