Your Car’s Brakes Explained
Disc, Drum, Emergency, & More
Do you know everything about your car’s brakes? AutoStream Car Care Center in Columbia, Maryland wants our drivers to have all the information they need to understand repairs. Here’s what you need to know about the different brakes on your car.
Disc Brakes
If you look behind each wheel, you’ll see the disc brakes that are responsible for stopping your car when you hit the brake pedal. This is what most technicians are referring to when they talk about brake repair. These see a lot of use and will wear out over time. When that happens, parts need to be replaced to protect optimal brake performance. You’ll likely need new pads at some point in your vehicle’s lifespan. You might also need to replace the rotor and caliper.
Drum Brakes
Most vehicles use disc brakes, but some have a different kind of system called drum brakes. These consist of a brake drum that’s attached to the wheel. These use hydraulic pressure to squeeze the brake shoes against the drum, generating friction to slow the vehicle. Because they also rely on friction, they will wear out and need repairs at some point.
Emergency Brake
When you hear about brake repair, you might not think about your vehicle’s emergency or parking brake. This is a secondary system to the braking system that you use while driving that holds the car while it’s parked. They might also be used if the normal brakes fail. Hopefully, you won’t need to use your emergency brake for that reason, which is why it’s important to keep all of your car’s systems operational.
Anti-Lock Brakes
Most cars have anti-lock braking systems (ABS) that engage when the stationary brakes are applied suddenly. They keep the wheels from locking up entirely, which can cause the car to skid. The feature is especially important in wet and slippery conditions. Drivers in Columbia, Maryland will want to make sure this system is healthy before the winter season!
Schedule Brake Repair
Are your brakes safe to drive with? Visit the experts at AutoStream Car Care Center for brake repair to keep them healthy and ready for the road!
