Nov 28 2016
The automotive repair specialists at All Pro Discount Mufflers & Brakes in Brampton are pleased to provide the following information about how your vehicle’s brake system works and why proper servicing is so important.
(Credit: http://www.bramptonguardian.com/)
When you apply pressure to your brake pedal to slow or stop your vehicle, a connection of rods and levers activates the brake booster. The brake booster then delivers an amplified force to the master cylinder, which then triggers brake fluid in the hydraulic lines to the front and rear brakes. The hydraulic pressure that’s applied to each brake creates friction, thus slowing or stopping the vehicle. The more pressure you apply to the brake pedal, the greater the pressure to the wheel brakes; too much pressure, and you can risk locking up the wheels. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are designed to prevent this scenario by initiating optimum braking capacity without locking the wheels. In a braking system that does not have ABS, brake fluid reaches the wheel brakes via proportional valves. Braking pressure is then delivered based on the weight dispersal to each wheel.
Braking systems are made up of many different components, so it’s important that the system is checked as a matter of regular maintenance. The components of a brake system will differ somewhat for drum brakes versus disc brakes. Principal components of a disc brake system include the brake pedal, brake booster, master cylinder, hydraulic lines, brake fluid, proportional valve, hydraulic calipers, disc brakes, disc pads, disc/rotor, caliper assembly, wheel bearing and wheel studs.
Signs to watch for that indicate there’s a problem with your braking system include:
- A brake pedal that feels stiff or is harder to apply
- A spongy feel when applying the brake pedal
- A shaking or vibrating feeling to the brake pedal
- Any squeaking or grinding noise coming from the brakes
- Any sign of a brake fluid leak, or oily deposits on the inner part of the wheels
- A brake warning light that remains on, such as the emergency brake light or ABS warning light
Clearly, if you’re concerned about the effectiveness of your vehicle’s brakes, including anything to do with the emergency brake or ABS, then servicing is required. Brake pad wear and low levels of brake fluid in the reservoir are further signs that the vehicle needs immediate servicing.
Brake system servicing and repairs should not be attempted by anyone except proficient, experienced and trained auto technicians. If you live and work anywhere near Brampton, All Pro Discount Mufflers & Brakes specializes in automotive brake maintenance and repairs. A full range of All Pro’s services includes brakes, mufflers and exhaust systems (including custom exhaust work), oil changes, shocks and struts, and even rustproofing. A free shuttle service is available within the immediate area when your vehicle is in for servicing.
Source: http://www.bramptonguardian.com/