Car brakes are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle. Each time you press down on your brake pedal to stop or slow down your car can weigh as much as 2 tons. With every press of the brake pedal you engage a complex system that sends your instinctive movement from the pedal to the brakes that are located at each wheel. Braking systems have a number of parts that require regular maintenance for your safety and optimum performance.

COMPONENTS OF A BRAKING SYSTEM 

Brake pads are oblong pads made of copper, brass or steel which provide friction and are designed to wear out rather than the most expensive parts like your rotors. Brake pads also give us the stopping power we need, as well as giving us a good service life. Rotors are a round flat piece of steel that is attached to a rod that is held in place on the inside of the wheel. On the other side of the rotor is where the brake pads are housed. When you apply the brake pedal, the pads compress around the rotor allowing for the vehicle to stop or slow down. Your brake pads should be inspected on regular basis to avoid major costly repair problems. Another component of you braking system is the brake fluid. Brake fluid is used inside of the brakes and helps to decrease the amount of pressure on the actual brake mechanisms, reducing wear and tear on the car’s gears. Always make sure you have the right amount of brake fluid as too little will wear out your brakes would wear out rapidly.

INDICATORS YOUR BRAKE PADS GOING BAD

If your brake pads are worn they will be less effective during the braking process, which can lead to a dangerous situation. To tell if you are in need of replacing your brake pads you should listen to the noise coming from your rotors while braking. If you hear a grinding or squealing sounds then it is likely that your brake pads are worn to the point that are will require a replacement. The brake pedal can become less resistant and spongy when the brake is applied. You might notice less resistance and the pedal dropping lower to the floorboard. Also, noticing vibration or pulsation when applying the pedal indicates warped or improper rotors, meaning that your rotors might need to be replaced. Be alert by the signs that your car gives off when something is wrong. It is best to catch something like this before things get worse and it is too late.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR BRAKES FAIL

Although brake failure rarely happens because of a number of mechanical checks, it is best to know what to do in case you are put in this type of situation. If you are driving and your brakes do fail you then you should downshift into a lower gear. You should also build up your brake pressure by pumping your brake pedal quickly; unless you have anti-lock brakes then you should press down hard. You can also use your parking brake if needed and all other suggestions do not work. Because this is a dangerous situation you should be cautious of other drivers and steer where necessary. Being educated on your brakes is important and can help you during difficult driving conditions.