Your Vehicle’s Braking System
We all know the braking system is critical to safe travel. Although serious driving enthusiasts place a lot of emphasis on how fast they can go, there may not be a "next time" unless they can stop safely. "Brakes" is often the short term used when referencing the braking system, but there are actually multiple components that work together as a whole to accomplish that single task of stopping your car. When you find that you need brake service or repair be sure to visit your mechanic.
The Main Components and Their Functions
To understand how your amazing brake system works, you can start by reviewing each major part and its function. Brakes work using hydraulics and friction. As you depress the brake pedal, a level and piston transfer force to the master cylinder. That's the brake fluid reservoir. The pressure increases to the point that the brake fluid is forced through hoses or lines to the cylinder near each wheel. The hydraulic principle allows the force you apply to the pedal to be multiplied, meaning that a lot of pressure is ultimately applied to the braking components without a great amount of work on your part. As the hydraulic force moves brake components into place, the friction they create upon contact causes your vehicle to slow down and stop.
Most modern cars have disc brakes at least on the front wheels. When this is the case, the fluid force moves the brake caliper that's attached to the metal brake pad. The pad meets the disc at each wheel, generating the friction needed for sufficient stopping ability. The majority of older autos and often the back wheels of newer models have drum brakes. While they also work using friction, a drum turns inside the wheel. Metal brake shoes, forced by the hydraulic pressure, contact the drum's interior surface to slow the vehicle.
Don’t Be a Victim of Brake Failure
Depending upon which statistical analysis you review, brake failure accounts for two to five percent of car crashes caused by mechanical failure. You'd better get them checked! Equally concerning, distracted driving is the number one cause of vehicle accidents. If you fall victim to distracted driving (or another distracted driver), your ability to stop at the last minute may be the only thing standing between you and an accident. To ensure that your auto is as prepared as it can be to stop in an emergency, have your brakes inspected periodically and keep them well maintained. Visit Hollin Hall Automotive in Alexandria, VA, for all your brake repair needs.