About Brakes

Brakes

A series of components working together that exert pressure to slow or stop a vehicle.

• The brake pedal pushes a rod that actuates the master cylinder.
• The master cylinder distributes the hydraulic braking power to the brake calipers/cylinders that push the pistons in the cylinders.
• The pistons push the brake pads or shoes against the brake rotors or brake drums (attached to your wheel), which STOPS THE CAR.

Anti Lock Brakes (ABS)

A series of components working together that exert pressure to slow or stop a vehicle.

• The brake pedal pushes a rod that actuates the master cylinder.
• The master cylinder distributes the hydraulic braking power to the brake calipers/cylinders that push the pistons in the cylinders.
• The pistons push the brake pads or shoes against the brake rotors or brake drums (attached to your wheel), which STOPS THE CAR.

Brake Fluid Flush

Flushing your brake fluid every two years is a great habit. Poor brake fluid can adversely affect braking performance — you don’t want to realize your brake fluid is bad the hard way. Flushing the brakes removes the old fluid from the entire system, including the master reservoir. (Most cars today should use DOT 4 brake fluid.)

Brake Warning Signs

SQUEAL

Some braking noise is normal, but it should be minimal. The brakes need attention if you hear excessive squealing.

VIBRATION

If the brake pedal or steering wheel shakes or vibrates, or if the vehicle shakes when the brakes are applied, it may be due to:

• disc brake rotors in need of resurfacing
• a loose component
• a faulty steering mechanism

GRAB

If vehicle brakes grab at the slightest pressure, it could be:

• a problem with grease-or oil-contaminated linings
• a loose or broken component that could fail in an emergency

PULL

If the vehicle pulls to the side when braking, it could be due to:

• an under-inflated tire
• brakes in need of adjustment
• brakes requiring repair

DRAG

If the vehicle has sticking brakes, hot wheels or loss of engine power, it could be due to brakes that fail to release. This is a situation that can suddenly reverse itself, leaving the vehicle without brakes.