How does the brake system work?
How does the brake system work?: For drivers, hitting the brakes is a habitual behavior when it comes to slowing down or stopping a car. Have you ever wondered how your car’s brake system works? Or how the force of your legs gets to the wheels and ultimately stops the car? Although mechanical knowledge does not fall under the purview of driving, you should be aware of the functional aspects of your car’s brakes. After all, rider and driver safety largely depends on the efficiency of your braking system.
Knowing how your brakes work will help you prevent accidents. Also, you will be well informed about when to visit a car technician and get the brakes fixed.
The Function of Your Brake System: A Comprehensive Overview
Your car has four wheels, and the hydraulic brake system in your car works in perfect sync to control speed. Generally, your vehicle may have drum or disc type brakes. Many contemporary manufacturers include four-wheel disc brakes in cars. Some brakes have disc brakes on the front wheels, while drum brakes on the rear wheels. The front brakes do most of the work when stopping or slowing down a car. Therefore, the most powerful disc brakes are used for the front wheels.
On the other hand, drum brakes are more cost effective. These brakes are able to stop the speed of the car sufficiently. Here’s how the brake system works in your vehicle.
- When your foot depresses the brake pedal, the force exerted by the foot multiplies due to mechanical leverage. Additionally, the brake booster makes the force even stronger.
- A piston is then driven into the cylinder. It is responsible for squeezing hydraulic fluid into the area.
- The system consists of many hoses and brake lines, which form a network. Fluid flows over the braking system.
- This ensures that the pressure is transmitted evenly to all the brakes.
- Disc brake rotors and brake pads generate force through friction. Ultimately, it serves to slow down or stop your car.
The anti-lock brake system in modern cars
Most modern cars have an ABS or anti-lock braking system. This braking system is automated, which prevents skidding by preventing the wheels from turning suddenly. ABS takes advantage of the driver’s control over the vehicle in addition to significantly reducing stopping distances on dry and slippery surfaces. Therefore, the driver is not required to pump the brakes. This process requires drivers to apply good force on the brakes. Once the foot is off the pedal, the automatic system works to perfection.
When do you need to replace your brakes?
Over time, your brakes will wear out. Finally, you need to change them before the situation escalates to the level of accidents. Don’t wait until the metal breaks. This can damage the rotor or brake drum, leading to expensive repairs. When you see any signs of wear, the brake system, go for an inspection. Certified car mechanics at major repair and service centers will perform the necessary work. In particular, when you notice the vehicle pulling to a certain side while braking, be sure not to delay.
Here are some other signs of wear in the brake system.
- A sticky sensation when pressing the brakes
- Screaming and screaming sounds
- burning smell
- A shudder or clunk when braking
Frequent need to add brake fluid
Well, now you know how braking works in your car. If you feel it’s time to have your brakes inspected, visit one of the top car repair centers in your city.
