The brakes in a car provide basic fundamentals to its operation. Like many other auto parts, the brakes are needed in order for the car to properly function. Auto brakes can operate in multiple fashions, depending on the make of the car. Most car brake systems consist mainly of liquid that is transferred from the decompression of the pedal to the brakes. This liquid is multiplied at higher forces and pressures to make it so that your car stops or slows when the driver pushes down the pedal. This process is done by hydraulic force multiplication. Then there is friction applied between the brake pads to slow the spin of the tires. This type of braking can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle. There are also typically two other types of brake systems. These brake systems include drum and disc brakes.
Drum brakes are the cheaper of the two common brake systems. Drum brakes consist of brake shoes, backing plates, brake drums, wheel cylinder, return springs, and an automatic or self-adjusting system. Brake fluid, through hydraulic force, is applied to the wheel cylinder. Then the brake shoe is forced into contact with the surface on the inside of the brake drum. This whole process is enclosed by the drum brakes housing. The disc brake types are open and the drum brakes are not.
Disc brakes are the more expensive of the two types of brakes but also the most efficient. Disc brakes are self cleaning and are less likely to become jammed with dirt and other debris. This braking system consists of the brake pads, a rotor, and two calipers. The brake fluid is pushed into the calipers. Then that fluid moves into the piston. The piston then pushes onto the pads and the pads squeeze the disc rotor. The pads then cause the disc rotor to spin at slower rates which in turn stop the vehicles wheels from turning.
As mentioned previously, the brakes are responsible for slowing and/or stopping your vehicle. So, the brakes play a very crucial role in the operation of your vehicle. If your brakes are malfunctioning and are not doing their job, the results can be fatal to you and other drivers. It is best to keep your brakes and brake system routinely maintained. Keeping your brakes in good condition could mean a trip to the store or a trip to the hospital. If you are driving and experience any oddity in your car’s braking, get to a professional mechanic A.S.A.P.! A professional is the best person to go to when you car is having troubles. They can ensure your car with safety and top notch care. It is not recommended for drivers to fix brakes themselves if they are not properly trained or certified. Professional mechanics go through rigorous training to make sure they know everything about the braking systems.
