5 Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Vehicle’s Shocks

Ken’s Muffler & Brakes • 6 December 2024
A black acura is parked on the side of the road

Healthy shocks play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth and stable ride. They absorb bumps and vibrations from the road, maintaining proper handling and safety. But as they age, shocks can wear out, leading to compromised performance and potentially unsafe driving conditions. At Ken’s Muffler & Brakes, we provide expert shock replacement in the greater Dallas area. Here are five signs that it’s time to replace your vehicle’s shocks.


Excessive Bouncing After Hitting a Bump

When your shocks are in good condition, they prevent your car from bouncing excessively after hitting a bump or pothole. If your car continues to bounce several times after an impact, it’s a sign that your shocks are worn out. This excessive movement reduces your ability to control the vehicle, especially on uneven roads.


Longer Braking Distances

Worn shocks can affect your vehicle's stopping power. When the shocks fail to properly stabilize the vehicle during braking, your car may take longer to come to a stop. This can consequently increase the risk of accidents, particularly in emergency situations.


Uneven Tire Wear

Shocks help maintain consistent tire contact with the road. If they are no longer effective, your tires may experience uneven wear patterns. Inspect your tires for irregular tread wear—it could indicate that your shocks aren’t distributing weight evenly across the wheels.


Noticeable Fluid Leaks

Shocks contain hydraulic fluid that helps absorb road impacts. If you see oil leaking from your shocks or struts, it means they need attention from the mechanic. This fluid loss will reduce their effectiveness and should be addressed promptly to prevent further problems.


Decreased Handling and Stability

If your vehicle feels unstable while cornering or sways excessively when turning, your shocks may no longer be providing adequate support. This instability can make driving more dangerous, especially at high speeds. Replacing the shocks can restore your vehicle’s handling and improve overall safety.


Suspension Repair in Dallas, TX

For auto repair in Dallas and the surrounding area, contact Ken’s Muffler & Brakes at  214-308-2320. Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

What are some simple ways to help keep my brakes healthy & safe?

by Ken’s Muffler & Brakes • 3 October 2025
Brakes are among the most critical safety components on your vehicle. When they’re in top condition, you can drive with confidence knowing you’ll be able to stop when it matters most. On the other hand, neglected brakes can become a major hazard and lead to costly repairs. The good news is that with a little preventive care and attention, you can help keep your brakes performing reliably for years to come. At Ken’s Muffler & Brakes, we provide expert brake service in the greater Dallas area. Here are four tips for healthy brakes. Get Regular Brake Inspections Having your brakes checked regularly is the first step in keeping them dependable. During an inspection, a mechanic can look for worn pads, thin rotors, or leaks in the brake lines. Routine inspections often reveal small problems before they escalate into dangerous or expensive issues. It’s generally recommended to have your brakes looked at at least once a year, or sooner if you notice anything unusual. Replace Worn Brake Pads on Time Brake pads are designed to wear out over time, but waiting too long to replace them can create bigger problems. Once pads become too thin, they can cause rotor damage that requires more extensive repairs. If you hear squealing or grinding noises when braking, it’s a strong sign your pads are due for replacement. Keep an Eye on Brake Fluid Brake fluid plays an essential role in the braking process, helping transmit pressure from the pedal to the brakes themselves. Over time, this fluid can absorb moisture, which reduces its effectiveness and may lead to corrosion in the brake lines. Checking your brake fluid level and condition periodically, and having it flushed as recommended in your vehicle’s manual, helps maintain strong and responsive braking power. Address Problems Right Away Strange sounds, vibrations, or a spongy feeling when pressing the brake pedal are all warning signs that something isn’t right. Ignoring these symptoms can compromise your safety and lead to more serious mechanical issues. As soon as you notice unusual behavior from your brakes, schedule a professional inspection. Prompt attention keeps your vehicle safe and prevents small problems from becoming major repairs. Brake Service in Dallas, TX For brake service in Dallas, TX and the surrounding area, contact Ken’s Muffler & Brakes at  214-308-2320  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!

Engine Overheating: A Look at 4 Common Causes

by Ken’s Muffler & Brakes • 10 September 2025
When your vehicle overheats, it’s more than just an inconvenience—it’s a warning sign that something under the hood isn’t functioning properly. An overheated engine can cause serious damage if not addressed quickly. At Ken’s Muffler & Brakes, we provide expert cooling system repair in the greater Dallas area. Here are four issues that often lead to an overheating vehicle. Failing Thermostat The thermostat is a small but essential component that controls the flow of coolant through your engine. If the thermostat gets stuck in the closed position, coolant cannot circulate, and heat builds up rapidly. Drivers may notice the temperature gauge rising unusually fast, signaling that the thermostat may be malfunctioning. Replacing a faulty thermostat is a relatively simple repair, but ignoring it can result in significant engine damage from overheating. Low Coolant Levels Coolant plays a critical role in keeping your engine at the right temperature. If your coolant levels are low, your car will struggle to regulate heat, especially in hot weather or heavy traffic. Leaks in the radiator, hoses, or water pump are often the culprits behind coolant loss. Without enough coolant circulating through the system, the engine cannot dissipate heat properly, which can quickly lead to overheating. Radiator Problems The radiator is responsible for cooling down the hot coolant before it circulates back into the engine. When the radiator becomes clogged, damaged, or develops leaks, it cannot perform this crucial function. A clogged radiator may be caused by debris buildup, while leaks are often the result of corrosion or physical damage. Because the radiator is central to the cooling process, problems with it can easily lead to overheating. Malfunctioning Water Pump The water pump enables coolant to flow properly throughout the engine. If the pump fails, coolant will not move efficiently, and the engine will begin to overheat. Signs of a failing water pump include coolant leaks and whining noises. Prompt replacement is necessary to prevent serious damage. Cooling System Repair in Dallas, TX For expert auto repair in Dallas and the surrounding area, contact Ken’s Muffler & Brakes at  214-308-2320  . Feel free to give us a call to make an appointment!
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