My sister drives a 1999 CR-V/ Periodically the brakes squeek and the breaklight comes on sometimes in the morning. She went to have the tires replaced and she asked the mechanic to check the brakes. They said the pads and roters were fine but that she might want to get the rear breaks cleaned and adjusted. Is this necessary?

 

Yes its needed. Out of adjusted rear shoes will cause a squeak or groan when braking. As for the brake light,id recommend replacing the brake fluid sensor on the brake master. It gives false readings that the fluid is low thus illuminating the light. The part will run around $35-40 with the filter.

 

Thanks very very much!!

 

I see a "clean and adjust" as a way for shops to make money. Yes, improperly shoes can lead to problems, but most noticeably the parking brake not holding the vehicle very well. If it needs it, do it.

As for the brake fluid light, IIRC there is a TSB on a new and improved brake fluid reservoir that properly vents pressure in varying temperatures. The sensor does not need to be replaced.