How do car brakes work?
The braking system in a car is responsible for bringing your vehicle to a stop while you’re driving.
Modern cars have brakes on all four wheels which are operated by a hydraulic system and are made up of several components all of which are subject to stress which could result in breakage.
The front brakes in a car are typically the ones which play the greater part in bringing a car to stop as the weight of the car is thrown forward every time the vehicle comes to a stop.
Symptoms of brake problems
If you suspect you need your brakes repaired but your car is still drivable, there are some symptoms which could give you clues as to what the problem is. The brakes are often the noisiest part of a car if there is an issue which means you should be able to hear a problem which cannot be said of many other broken car parts.
Here are the tell-tale sounds and signs to look out for if your cars brakes have an issue:
Metallic grinding noise
This may be caused by worn pads. Metal will be clutching metal to stop, so the noise will not be pleasant!
Squeaking brakes
This will lead to extensive damage of the linings, drums and rotors. Although, the noise may just mean that a stone or debris stuck in between the brake caliper and the brake pad, though this is rare.
To find out why your brakes are squeaking read our dedicated guide.
Fading of low brake pedal
This can be caused by three issues: leakage in the system, air getting into the brake linings or a need to adjust the brake.
Pulling to one side
This happens when you either have a damaged brake line, worn the brake linings down or the linings are uneven. If the brakes are dragging, this is likely because contaminated fluid is in the system or the brakes not being adjusted properly.
Abnormal brake behaviour
If the brake pedal feels spongy or is slow to sink to the floor, there is a good chance that the master cylinder is to blame.
Contaminated brake fluid
If the rubber seals on a master cylinder break down over time, the debris and lack of effectiveness of the part will result in the contamination of brake fluid, which turns dark brown or black.
Check engine light switched on
If the engine warning light switches on, there are a variety of problems which could be the cause including the master cylinder. If there is a pressure change, it could be the result of the master cylinder breaking.
Brake Pads and Discs
Brake pads and discs are the most common form of brake repair. The discs spin with your car's wheels and the pads are pushed against the discs when you apply the brake pedal in order to bring your car to a halt.
Brake Caliper
Calipers hold the pads against the discs when the brakes are applied. Therefore, a car cannot come to a stop without them being fully operational.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid problems are common when it comes to brake repairs. If the fluid drops below a certain level, a driver’s ability to bring a car to a halt will drop rapidly. This often happens due to a leak, caused by rust.
Fluid levels will always be checked during a full service or an MOT and if the level is too low, a mechanic will check for a leak.
ABS Brakes
An anti-lock braking system is used by many modern cars. This method of braking has been implemented as a safety measure as it allows a car to maintain tractive contact with the road as the brakes are applied and a car comes to a stop.
The ABS light coming on should prompt you to take the car to a garage to have the issue looked at as the system may no longer be fully operational. If the ABS light AND brake light switch are on at the same time, it is critically important that you get to a local garage as soon as possible.
Master Cylinder
The master cylinder is a vital part of the braking system as it serves as the main valve through which brake fluid is channelled to the lines and onto the calipers which in turn, grip the pads which clamp onto the disc to bring a car to a halt. A master cylinder controls the flow of brake fluid and so if there is a fault, the car will not be able to stop properly.
Brake Lines
Brake lines carry brake fluid from the master cylinder to the calipers. Brake lines are subject to deterioration as a result of rust damage and brake fluid leakage. If the lines break, then fluid cannot be carried to the calipers and you will not be able to stop your car.
Handbrake repairs
The most common form of handbrake problems is when the handbrake cable snaps and a new one needs to be fitted. A new handbrake cable is not expensive and fitting the part is not a complex job so you should not have to pay a lot in labour costs.
Rust may be a cause of the handbrake cable to weaken and snap. One of the most obvious signs that the cable is close to snapping, is that the handbrake itself will pull up higher than usual.
Top Tips for Brake Repair
When you have your brakes repaired, it is also important to ensure that the following points are kept in mind.
· When you are having your brake pads replaced, you should also have your discs replaced and ensure each axle has its own new set.
· During the first 200km the performance of your new brakes may not be tip top as they need to ‘bed in’ you should therefore avoid heavy braking if it can be helped during this time.
· After the installation you should also pump the brake pedal until it becomes stiff to break the new equipment in however you should also ensure the wheels freely rotate when the pedal is not pushed down.
By following this advice, you will ensure your brakes serve your vehicle in the best possible way.
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