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Brake Repair in Waupaca, WI | Brake Repair Near You

From minor brake repairs to full brake overhauls, our ASE-certified technicians provide expert brake repair services to keep your vehicle stopping smoothly in Waupaca, WI.

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Expert Brake Repair in Waupaca, WI

At Matthews Tire, we believe in keeping you rolling—safely. Whether you're commuting through Waupaca, taking on Wisconsin’s winter roads or planning a road trip up north, your brakes need to be in top shape. That’s why we’re proud to be your trusted choice for auto repair in Waupaca, WI.

Drivers in Waupaca, Appleton, Menasha, Fond du Lac and Green Bay have trusted us for brake repairs, maintenance and auto care because of our longtime experience in the region. Our ASE-certified technicians use dealer-level equipment to diagnose and fix brake issues, ensuring your vehicle stops smoothly and safely.

Convenient Location in Waupaca:

111 W. Union St., Waupaca, WI 54981 Call: 715-258-0288

Need a ride while we service your brakes? We’ve got you covered!

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Providing top-quality, high-value car maintenance and auto repair services in Appleton, Menasha, Waupaca, Fond du Lac and Green Bay.

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Why Waupaca Drivers Trust Matthews Tire for Brake Repair

  • ASE-certified and highly trained technicians with years of hands-on experience. Our technicians have experience in brake pad replacements, transmission repairs, engine repairs, wheel and tire repairs and more!
  • Advanced diagnostics for ABS and brake system safety checks.
  • High-quality brake pads and rotors for long-lasting performance.
  • Transparent pricing and money-saving coupons.
  • Locally owned and operated, serving Northeast Wisconsin for more than 70 years.
  • Community-focused service provider, dedicated to giving our neighbors peace of mind and keeping them safe on the road.
  • Shuttle service, pickup and delivery and waiting area with free Wi-Fi and coffee for customer convenience.

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Automotive technician replacing brakes on vehicle

Signs You Need Brake Repair

Understanding when your brakes need service is crucial for safety. Look out for these warning signs:

  • Squeaking or grinding noises: Worn brake pads can cause metal-on-metal friction.
  • Soft or spongy brake pedal: A sign of air in the brake lines or a failing master cylinder.
  • Longer stopping distances: Reduced braking efficiency can be dangerous.
  • Vibrations while braking: Warped rotors cause steering wheel shakes.
  • Brake warning light is on: Your car’s diagnostic system has detected an issue.
  • Burning smell while braking: Overheated brake pads or stuck calipers may cause excessive wear.
  • Brake pedal pulsation: Worn-out rotors or uneven brake pad wear can lead to inconsistent braking.

If you notice any of these symptoms, set up a brake inspection at our Waupaca location today!

The Importance of Brake Maintenance

Brakes are your first line of defense on the road. Routine brake maintenance:

  • Prevents accidents by ensuring rapid stopping power.
  • Saves money by addressing issues before they cause expensive repairs.
  • Extends the lifespan of your braking system.
  • Helps maintain your vehicle’s resale value.
  • Ensures compliance with manufacturer-recommended service intervals.
  • Enhances overall driving safety and comfort.

Schedule Your Brake Repair
new brake pads and rotors sitting on table

Frequently Asked Brake Repair Questions

Why are my brakes squeaking?
Brakes squeak due to worn brake pads, moisture or debris on the rotors. Glazed pads, lack of lubrication or uneven rotor surfaces also cause squeaking. Lubrication should only be applied to appropriate brake components, such as caliper slide pins, not directly to the pads or rotors. Regular inspections and maintenance help prevent brake noise and ensure safe braking.
How do I know if my brake pads need replacing?
Brake pads need replacing if you hear squealing or grinding noises, if you experience reduced braking performance or see the brake warning light (if equipped). Visual signs include pads thinner than 3-4 mm (about 1/8 inch). Vibrations when braking are more often caused by worn rotors but can indicate uneven pad wear. Regular inspections help prevent brake failure.
How do you tell if you need rotors replaced?
Uneven or worn rotors cause vibrations, a pulsating brake pedal or scoring marks on the rotor surface. If braking feels rough or inconsistent, inspect both pads and rotors for wear. Rotors should be replaced or resurfaced with brake pads to ensure even wear, to ensure optimal braking performance and to prevent damage to new pads. Installing new pads on old, uneven rotors can lead to uneven wear, noise and reduced brake lifespan.
What causes brake rotors to warp?
Brake rotors develop uneven surfaces due to excessive heat, improper cooling or uneven lug nut tightening. Hard braking, riding the brakes or towing heavy loads can cause excessive heat buildup, leading to thermal stress and brake judder. Moisture and rust can contribute to uneven wear, affecting braking performance. Regular maintenance and proper braking techniques help prevent these issues.
How often should brake fluid be changed?
Brake fluid should be changed every 2 to 3 years or as specified by the manufacturer, typically between 30,000 and 45,000 miles. Regular brake fluid changes maintain optimal braking performance and prevent system failure.
How does brake fluid impact braking performance?
Brake fluid transfers force from the pedal to the brakes, ensuring responsive stopping power. Over time, brake fluid absorbs moisture, which lowers its boiling point—and that can reduce braking efficiency, cause corrosion or the pedal to feel spongy. Overheated fluid can lead to brake fade and even failure.
What are the signs of a failing brake caliper?
Signs of a failing brake caliper include uneven braking, your vehicle pulling to one side, leaking brake fluid or a spongy brake pedal. Other symptoms include grinding noises due to excessive pad wear, reduced braking power and excessive heat near the wheel. Ignoring caliper issues can lead to brake failure and costly repairs.
How often should I have my brakes checked?
Brakes should be checked at least once a year or as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. This is typically anywhere between 5,000 to 15,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Frequent inspections help detect worn pads, damaged rotors or fluid leaks before they cause brake failure, ensuring safe braking performance and extending component lifespan.
Tire line up on a rack

Customer Testimonials

Hear from our many satisfied customers in Northeast Wisconsin. Learn why so many drivers trust their vehicles, tires and safety on the road with Matthews Tire.

Matthews in Waupaca are the experts you need to get you vehicle back on the road. The brands they sell are awesome. I was on the road yesterday-icy roads in Appleton and all highways. First time experience with my new tires. Not once when applying my brake did my vehicle slide. Thank you Matthews for steering me in the right choice of tires for my car.

— Carol Hutchison

Waupaca, WI
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5.0 star rating

The staff are very professional and personal. I have been very satisfied with the work and advice given. I recommend Matthews Tire to my family and friends.

— Dorothy Craney

Waupaca, WI
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5.0 star rating

Nate, Matt, and their crew are awesome! They are honest and patient. We have had a lot of work done there on various vehicles and they always give us options to work with. Even my kid takes vehicles there. I would definitely recommend giving them a call!

— Heather Peterson

Waupaca, WI
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5.0 star rating

Matthews went above and beyond to make sure I left a happy customer. Their service and prices were the best in the area.

— Kris Seeger-douglas

Waupaca, WI
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5.0 star rating

Always pleasant. Needed a ride and got that too. Friendly people. Good work and worked with us. Been a customer for a long time. Never any problems.

— Emilie Eppensteiner

Waupaca, WI
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5.0 star rating

My car's battery died. I had it towed to Waupaca and I called Matthews at 9:30 a.m. to let Chris know my car was coming in and would be there by 11. They diagnosed that my battery had died and I needed a new one. I figured I would pick up my car the new day and was surprised when Chris called before noon and said it was ready! Great service!

— Trey Foerster

Waupaca, WI
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5.0 star rating

Read more testimonials and hear in-depth customer feedback on the customer stories page.

Customer Stories

Experience Auto Excellence

Never settle for subpar, overpriced auto services ever again! The ASE-certified technicians at Matthews Tire are here to bring you world-class service, dealer-level auto parts and unbeatable value on every service.

From tire installations, oil changes and alignments to full-service brake repairs, engine overhauls and more, we’ll keep you rolling.

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