brakes

Your Auto Brakes

If you were to make a list of the most important parts in your vehicle, you’d probably place the brakes near the top. You certainly can’t drive without them and malfunctioning brakes can cause serious problems. We all have a general idea about how the brakes in our vehicles work - they slow down the car until it eventually comes to a stop, but any understanding beyond that is probably a mystery. Read this informative brake guide and expand your knowledge on this vital part of your vehicle!
Disc Brakes

Although some vehicles use drum brakes or a combination of different types, disc braking systems are by far the most popular in our vehicles today. When you push your brakes in your car, your braking system tells the pads over your wheels to clamp down. Depending on how much pressure you apply to your brakes, the pads will eventually prevent the vehicle’s wheels from spinning any further. Disc brakes have proven to be more effective than drum brakes, as they eliminate heat faster, which helps prevent brake failure. However, over time, almost all disc brake pads will wear out and require replacement to properly function.
Anti-Lock Braking System

While the Anti-lock Braking System used to be a luxury in certain cars, it can now be found in just about every vehicle out there. Each car maker has their specific anti-lock braking system, but they all generally work the same way. If you’re ever forced to slam on your brakes and come to an emergency stop, your ABS should jump into action. During your emergency stop, it will automatically take control of the car’s brake pressure in order to prevent the wheels from locking. It allows you to still safely bring your car to a halt, without putting yourself at risk to skid across the road.
Common Brake Problems

As one of the most vital parts in your vehicle, you always want to make sure that your brakes are working properly. Here’s a look at some of the most common problems that pop up with brakes and their causes:

* One of the more serious issues that can arise with brakes occurs when they begin to lock up. Some of the most common problems associated with locked brakes are wheel bearing problems or broken brake pads.
* Many people complain of squealing breaks, even when they are just lightly being pressed. While it is often only dust or simple wear and tear, it could be a more serious issue, such as warped brake shoes.
* Most vehicles have a light in the dash board for the ABS system and seeing it light up could mean trouble. Generally if your ABS light has come on, it means that there is something wrong with it and may not be functioning properly. Get this checked out as soon as possible, as you don’t want to risk not having anti-lock brakes when you have to make an emergency stop.