Brake Service & Repair in Rohnert Park & Sonoma County
Brake repair you can trust from ASE certified technicians at Rohnert Park Transmission & Auto Repair. From brake pad replacement and rotor service to fluid flushes, caliper repair, and ABS diagnostics, we keep your vehicle stopping safely. Family-owned since 1997 with same-day service available.
Brake Pad & Rotor Service
Brake pads and rotors are the heart of your stopping system. Every time you press the pedal, friction material on the pads grips the rotors to slow your vehicle. Over tens of thousands of miles that material wears down, and the rotors develop grooves, heat spots, or warping that reduce braking effectiveness. At Rohnert Park Transmission & Auto Repair, our ASE certified technicians inspect pad thickness, measure rotor runout, and check for heat damage to give you an accurate picture of your brake health before recommending any work.
We offer both ceramic and semi-metallic brake pad options. Ceramic pads run quieter and produce less dust, making them ideal for daily commuters on Highway 101. Semi-metallic pads deliver stronger stopping power and better heat dissipation for trucks, SUVs, and drivers who tow through Sonoma County. When your rotors still meet minimum thickness specifications, we can resurface them to restore a smooth braking surface and extend their life. When rotors are too worn or warped, we install quality replacements that meet or exceed OEM standards.
Whether you are hearing a squeal, feeling a vibration in the steering wheel, or simply due for a brake check, our team provides transparent assessments and honest recommendations. We show you the condition of your components so you can make an informed decision.
Brake Fluid Flush & Maintenance
Brake fluid is the hydraulic link between your pedal and your brake calipers. When you press the pedal, fluid pressure forces the caliper pistons to squeeze the pads against the rotors. Fresh brake fluid has a high boiling point that prevents vapor lock under hard braking. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, which lowers its boiling point and can cause a soft pedal feel or complete brake fade during heavy use on steep Sonoma County mountain roads.
Our brake fluid flush service completely drains the old fluid and replaces it with fresh DOT 3, DOT 4, or DOT 5.1 fluid matched to your vehicle's specifications. We also bleed the lines to remove any trapped air that could compromise pedal feel. Most manufacturers recommend flushing brake fluid every two to three years or 30,000 miles, regardless of how the fluid looks. If your brake fluid appears dark instead of clear amber when we check it during an inspection, it is overdue for replacement.
Regular brake fluid maintenance is one of the most affordable ways to protect the rest of your brake system. Contaminated fluid accelerates corrosion inside calipers, wheel cylinders, and the master cylinder, leading to leaks and far more expensive repairs down the road.
Advanced Brake System Diagnostics
Modern vehicles rely on electronic brake controls that go far beyond pads and rotors. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) prevent wheel lockup during hard stops, electronic stability control (ESC) keeps your vehicle on its intended path, and electronic parking brakes (EPB) replace the traditional handbrake cable with a motor-driven actuator. When any of these systems trigger a dashboard warning light, you need a shop with the diagnostic equipment and training to pinpoint the problem.
Our technicians use factory-level scan tools to read ABS module codes, test wheel speed sensor signals, check hydraulic control unit function, and calibrate electronic parking brake actuators. Common ABS issues include faulty wheel speed sensors, contaminated tone rings, failing ABS pumps, and wiring faults. A lit ABS light means the system is disabled and your vehicle relies solely on standard braking, which can be dangerous on wet roads during Sonoma County's rainy season.
We also service master cylinders, brake boosters, and brake assist systems. If your pedal feels soft, spongy, or sinks toward the floor, these components may be failing and require immediate attention for safe driving. Our diagnostic process identifies the root cause before we recommend any repairs, so you only pay for what your vehicle actually needs.
When Do You Need Brake Repair?
Your brakes give you clear signals when they need attention. Do not ignore these warning signs. Catching brake problems early prevents more expensive repairs and protects your family on the road.
Squealing or Grinding Noises
A high-pitched squeal means your brake pads have reached their wear indicator and need replacement soon. If squealing has progressed to a grinding metal-on-metal sound, the pads are completely worn through and your rotors are being damaged. Schedule service immediately.
Vibration When Stopping
Feeling your steering wheel or brake pedal pulse when you stop usually indicates warped rotors. This is common after mountain driving on roads like Highway 12 through Sonoma Valley or heavy braking with worn pads. Rotor resurfacing or replacement resolves the vibration.
Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal
A pedal that sinks toward the floor or feels mushy signals air in the brake lines, a fluid leak, a failing master cylinder, or worn brake booster. This directly reduces stopping power and requires professional diagnosis right away.
Vehicle Pulling to One Side
If your car drifts left or right when braking, one side is applying more force than the other. Causes include a stuck caliper, uneven pad wear, or a collapsed brake hose. This creates unpredictable handling and should be inspected promptly.
Dashboard Brake Warning Light
Your brake warning light monitors fluid level and hydraulic pressure. Some vehicles also monitor pad thickness electronically. When this light illuminates, something in your brake system needs attention. Do not ignore it.
Burning Smell Near Wheels
A sharp chemical odor coming from your wheels means a caliper may be stuck, dragging the pad against the rotor continuously. This generates extreme heat that can boil brake fluid and cause complete brake failure. Pull over safely and call (707) 584-7727 for guidance.
Brake Repair Service Areas
Our brake shop at 305 Laguna Dr in Rohnert Park is centrally located off Highway 101 for easy access from all surrounding cities. We serve drivers throughout Sonoma County and the North Bay.
Related Services
Your braking system works closely with your suspension, steering, and tires. Worn suspension components can change braking distances, and uneven tire wear often points to a braking or alignment issue. We offer complete under-car service to keep everything working together.
Steering & Suspension
Shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rods, and alignment service to complement your braking system.
Tire Services
Tire sales, rotation, balancing, and repair. Proper tires maximize braking grip and safety.
Wheel Alignment
Proper alignment prevents uneven tire and brake pad wear and keeps your vehicle tracking straight.
Why Choose Rohnert Park Transmission for Brake Service
ASE Certified
Our ASE and ATRA certified technicians bring nearly three decades of brake repair experience to every vehicle we service.
Family-Owned Since 1997
We treat every customer like a neighbor because you are one. Honest assessments, transparent pricing, and no upselling.
4.9 Stars, 200+ Reviews
Rohnert Park drivers rate us 4.9 out of 5 for quality brake work, honest communication, and standing behind our repairs.
Certifications & Affiliations
Frequently Asked Questions About Brake Service
How long do brake pads last?
Brake pad lifespan varies from 25,000 to 70,000 miles depending on driving habits, vehicle weight, and pad material. City driving with frequent stops, like commuting on Highway 101 through Santa Rosa, wears pads faster. We recommend a brake inspection at least once a year or every 12,000 miles to catch wear early.
How much does brake repair cost?
Brake repair costs depend on your vehicle type, the severity of wear, and which components need service. A brake pad replacement costs less than a full system overhaul with new rotors and calipers. We provide a thorough inspection and transparent quote before any work begins. Call (707) 584-7727 for an accurate estimate.
What is the difference between ceramic and semi-metallic brake pads?
Ceramic brake pads are quieter, produce less dust, and are gentler on rotors, making them ideal for daily commuting. Semi-metallic pads offer better heat dissipation and stopping power for heavy-duty applications like towing. Our ASE certified technicians recommend the best option for your vehicle and Sonoma County driving conditions.
How often should I get a brake fluid flush?
Most manufacturers recommend a brake fluid flush every two to three years or 30,000 miles. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, lowering its boiling point and reducing stopping power, especially on steep Sonoma County roads. If your fluid looks dark instead of clear amber, it is time for a flush.
What are the warning signs that I need brake repair?
Common warning signs include squealing or grinding noises when braking, a vibrating brake pedal, longer stopping distances, the pedal feeling soft or spongy, the vehicle pulling to one side when stopping, a dashboard brake warning light, or a burning smell near the wheels. Any of these warrants immediate inspection at our Rohnert Park shop.
Can you repair ABS brakes?
Yes. Our diagnostic equipment handles ABS module testing, wheel speed sensor replacement, hydraulic control unit diagnosis, and electronic parking brake service. A lit ABS warning light means the system is disabled and your vehicle only has standard braking. Prompt diagnosis prevents further damage to expensive ABS components.
Do I need to replace rotors when I replace brake pads?
Not always. If your rotors are above minimum thickness and free of deep grooves or heat damage, they can often be resurfaced to save money. However, if rotors are worn too thin, warped, or cracked, replacement is necessary for safe braking. Our technicians measure your rotors and give you an honest recommendation.
Do you offer same-day brake repair?
Yes, most brake repairs including pad replacement, rotor service, and fluid flushes can be completed the same day at our Rohnert Park shop. We stock common brake parts for quick turnaround. For complex brake system repairs, we provide an accurate timeline after inspection. Call (707) 584-7727 to schedule.
Schedule Your Brake Inspection Today
Do not wait until a small brake problem becomes a safety hazard. Our ASE certified team provides honest assessments, transparent pricing, and same-day service for most brake repairs.