Welcome to The Auto Shop's comprehensive guide to your vehicle's braking system. Understanding how your brakes work, their components, and recognizing when they need maintenance or repair can keep you safe on the road. This October, while we're participating in the Brakes for Breasts campaign, let's dive into the essential aspects of your vehicle's brakes.
How Brakes Work
Your vehicle's brakes are a complex system designed to slow down and stop your car safely. When you press the brake pedal, a series of actions occur:
- Brake Pedal Press: Your foot pressing the brake pedal creates pressure in the master cylinder.
- Hydraulic Pressure: This pressure forces brake fluid through brake lines to the calipers or wheel cylinders.
- Brake Pads and Rotors: In disc brakes, calipers squeeze the brake pads against the rotors, creating friction that slows the wheel. In drum brakes, wheel cylinders push brake shoes against the drum.
- Stopping the Vehicle: This friction converts kinetic energy into heat, bringing your vehicle to a stop.
Understanding the key components of your braking system helps you identify when something might be wrong:
- Brake Pedal: The part you press to initiate braking.
- Master Cylinder: Converts pedal pressure into hydraulic pressure.
- Brake Fluid: Transfers pressure to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders.
- Brake Lines: Carry brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes.
- Calipers (Disc Brakes): House the brake pads and force them against the rotors.
- Brake Pads (Disc Brakes): Create friction against the rotors.
- Rotors (Disc Brakes): Metal discs connected to the wheels.
- Wheel Cylinders (Drum Brakes): Push brake shoes against the drum.
- Brake Shoes (Drum Brakes): Create friction against the drum.
- Brake Drums (Drum Brakes): Metal cylinders connected to the wheels.
Of course, you don’t need to be an ASE-Certified Mechanic to treat your brakes well. Avoid sudden stops, get them checked out as often as possible, and get your parts replaced when your manufacturer recommends. (Or, sooner if you notice any of the signs in the next section!)
Signs Your Brakes Need Help
Keeping an eye on your brakes' performance can prevent major issues. Here are common signs that your brakes need attention:
- Strange Noises: Squealing, grinding, or metallic noises when applying the brakes.
- Vibrations: Vibrations or pulsations when braking can indicate warped rotors.
- Soft Brake Pedal: A brake pedal that feels soft or sinks to the floor.
- Warning Lights: Dashboard warning lights related to the braking system.
- Pulling to One Side: The vehicle pulls to one side when braking.
- Burning Smell: A burning odor after braking.
If you are noticing any of these symptoms in your vehicle, it’s time to give us a call.
Get Your Brakes Checked at The Auto Shop
If you notice any of these signs, it's time to get your brakes checked. At The Auto Shop in Jefferson City, MO, we offer comprehensive brake services to ensure your vehicle's safety. During October, we're participating in the Brakes for Breasts campaign. This means we provide FREE premium-grade brake pads or shoes for your vehicle; you only cover labor and additional necessary parts. 10% of the proceeds from these services go to the Cleveland Clinic Breast Cancer Vaccine Fund. Schedule your appointment today atThe Auto Shop Appointments.
Support Brakes for Breasts
Join us in supporting a great cause while ensuring your vehicle's brakes are in top condition. Learn more about this initiative atBrakes for Breasts and our specific campaign details atThe Auto Shop Brakes for Breasts.
Visit Us Today
Your safety is our priority. Let us ensure your brakes are ready for the road. Visit The Auto Shop at 612 Missouri Boulevard Court, Jefferson City, MO, 65109. Our ASE-certified technicians are here to provide top-notch service. Contact us today to schedule a service appointment atThe Auto Shop Appointments.