How Do My Car’s Brakes Work? — Titan Auto & Tire

Thinking About Brakes

The time to think about brakes is before you have to think about brakes. Most often, as we go about our daily routines, we mindlessly tap the brake pedal when needed. We use brakes so frequently when driving that touching the pedal is usually little more than a habit. In reality, that’s the best time to consciously think about your vehicle’s stopping ability. If you keep your car in good working order with preventive maintenance services and timely fixes such as brake repair, you’re much less likely to experience the emergency situation of discovering that your brakes won’t work. At Titan Auto & Tire in Chesterfield, Virginia, we’re here to help you with superior brake repair. Even though you’re always on the go, we want to be sure you can stop.

Brake System 101: The Overview

Clearly, you need your auto’s braking system for your own safety and that of others. Even the thought of brake failure is frightening. As you contemplate the need for service and how to keep your car in great shape, perhaps you’re wondering how the brakes actually work. We’re glad to provide a quick overview. The system works using friction and hydraulics. As you depress the brake pedal (apply force), your action is transferred by a level and piston to the master cylinder. That’s the reservoir containing brake fluid. As you increase pressure, brake fluid is forced through lines/hoses to a cylinder near each wheel. The small amount of force you apply to the pedal multiplies because of the hydraulic principle. Thus, a heavy vehicle is stopped without an undue amount of effort on your part. The brake fluid (now possessing a lot of force), moves brake parts into position where they can create friction.

Almost all modern automobiles have disc brakes at least on the front wheels. The brake caliper pushes a metal pad against a disc located at each wheel. The metal against metal results in the friction needed to slow and/or stop the vehicle. The majority of older cars and many times the rear wheels or newer models have drum brakes. While this type also stops the car by using friction, it does so because a metal brake shoe is pressed against the interior surface of a drum that’s turning inside each wheel.

Your Local Trusted Brake Shop

At Titan Auto & Tire, we don’t just fix your brakes. It’s important to us to be an establishment in your own neighborhood that you can trust. Therefore, we operate using the values of honesty and integrity, not just mechanical principles. We even back our work with a generous nationwide warranty through the NAPA AutoCare network.