Brake system
The car brake system is one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. It uses hydraulic force to stop your car by pressing brake pads against a rotor or drum. Learn about the different types of brake systems, how they work, and how to maintain them.
Main components of a car brake system:
Master cylinder
This is the heart of the brake system. It converts the force of the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure
Brake lines
These carry the hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders
Brake calipers
These are located at each wheel and contain the brake pads. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake calipers apply pressure to the brake pads, which press against the brake rotors or drums to slow or stop the car.
Brake pads
These are the friction material that is sandwiched between the brake calipers and the brake rotors or drums. They wear down over time and need to be replaced regularly.
Brake rotors
These are the metal discs that are attached to the wheels. The brake pads press against the rotors to slow or stop the car.
Brake drums
These are the metal cylinders that are located inside the wheels. The brake shoes press against the drums to slow or stop the car
Wheel cylinders
These are located inside the brake drums and contain the pistons that apply pressure to the brake shoes
Brake booster
This is a vacuum-assisted device that increases the force applied to the master cylinder by the brake pedal. It makes it easier to apply the brakes, especially when the car is stopped.
Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
This system prevents the wheels from locking up during braking, which can help you maintain control of the car. It uses sensors to monitor the speed of each wheel and applies the brakes individually to prevent locking