Brake System
What does it do?
When you push the brake pedal, the force generates hydraulic pressure in the master cylinder. This pressure flows through the hydraulic lines and hoses to the wheel cylinders and calipers, forcing the shoes against the drums (drum brakes) and the pads against the rotors (disc brakes). The resulting friction slows the vehicle and is relative to the amount of force applied at the brake pedal.
Symptoms
• Car pulls to one side during braking
• Pulsating brake pedal or steering wheel shake
• Brake pedal feels “mushy”
• Unusual noise when you step on the brake pedal
• Repeatedly need to add brake fluid to the master cylinder
• Brake fluid sprayed onto outside of wheel
• Unusual odour or noise
There are a number of components in the braking system which can cause brake failure:
Drum Brakes
Drum brake systems are commonly used on the rear of a vehicle. The hydraulic system is initiated by pressing the brake pedal which causes two shoes inside a drum to move outwards making contact with the inner surface of the drum, causing resisting friction. The drum is connected to the wheel, so in this instance, results in friction being simulated from the drum to the wheel and causes the vehicle to stop.
Disc Brakes
Disc brakes may be on the front wheels or, more frequently, on all four wheels. The hydraulic system is initiated by pressing the brake pedal which causes two pistons to push two pads onto either side of a disc in a clamping motion. Brake discs are fixed to the wheels, therefore, when the pads clamp onto the discs, friction occurs and the wheels slow down bringing the vehicle to a stop.
ABS (Anti-Locking Brake System)
ABS is there to assist the driver when elements out of their control prevent a safe stop.
Brake checks are an important part of your vehicle servicing requirements, so we recommend that you have your brakes inspected periodically and not just when you have your MOT test.