What Kind of Bakes Are There?
Of course, you know that brakes are used to slow and stop your car. But there are different kinds of brakes:
Disc brakes – These are generally on the front wheels of your car. Disc brakes work like a vise, closing around the outer side of the vehicles rotor.
Drum brakes – Found on the rear wheels, brake shoes push against the inside surface of a rotating brake drum to slow the vehicle.
Anti-Lock Brakes
Newer cars are also usually equipped with computer-controlled Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) and/or other traction control devices. This safety feature is designed to prevent wheel lock-up and potential skidding.
How do they work?
When you hit the brake pedal, a piston forces hydraulic fluid through brake lines and hoses. This fluid pressure moves the disk and drum brakes into action, creating friction which slows the automobile. When the pedal is released, springs return the brakes to their normal position.
How Do Brakes Wear?
The most common problem is wear from use. Every time you apply your brakes, you’re wearing them out ever-so-slightly. If you’re a two-footed driver, you’re probably wearing them out even faster by braking while your other foot is accelerating. Other problems that may arise include: old and dirty brake fluid, leaks and clogs in the fluid lines and hoses, and larger problems with the drums, rotor and other hydraulic components.
How do you recognize a problem?
There are a number of different warning signs when you apply the brake pedal. A grinding or squealing noise is most common. having to press the pedal all the way to the floor is another. Other signs include the car skidding, pulling to one side, “steering wobbles” when applying brakes, or taking longer to stop. And, finally, the brake warning light will come on. But don’t wait for that light. Brakes are nothing to be lax about.
Wilderness Chevron – Brakes Service That Makes it Right!
As we said before, Wilderness Chevron will inspect your car – any time. So at the first sign of trouble, you should bring your car in for an inspection. In fact, just ask your Wilderness Auto Service technician to check your brakes every other oil change.
We’ll test your brakes, determine the problem area and fix or replace only what’s necessary using MAP guidelines. If something isn’t working right, Wilderness Auto Service technicians will isolate the problem, educate you on what’s wrong and explain all of your options.
