Vehicle brake system: information on operation, assembly and diagnostics

The brake system is a critical component of a car that ensures safe and efficient stopping of the vehicle. This system consists of several important parts, each of which is essential to ensure its proper functioning. Let’s take a look at how these parts work, how to assemble them, how to check their condition and how to maintain their service life.

Brake system design

The most common brake systems today are hydraulic disc brakes. The main components are:

• Brake pedal – When the driver presses the pedal, it activates the entire braking system.
• Brake booster – This component amplifies the pedal force, allowing the brakes to work more effectively.
• Master brake cylinder – This cylinder creates the necessary pressure to activate the other mechanisms in the system.
• Hoses and pipes – These parts ensure the supply of brake fluid to the cylinders.
• Pistons – Fluid pressure pushes pistons, which press the brake pads against the discs.
• Caliper – This holds the pistons and brake pads. The floating caliper mounts help the brake pads stick to the disc.
• Brake pads – They provide friction that stops the wheel from spinning when they are pressed against the disc.
• Discs – In a disc brake system, they serve as the second friction surface where the brake pads are pressed.

Drum brakes use brake pads and a wheel brake cylinder that are housed inside a drum. Parking brake systems are equipped with a cable rather than a hydraulic actuator.

Tips

• Brake fluid replacement – Brake fluid should be replaced every 2-3 years. The fluid absorbs moisture, which lowers its boiling point and can cause air bubbles in the system, which reduces braking efficiency.
• Checking brake discs and pads – Check the thickness of your brake discs and pads regularly. A worn disc can crack, and worn pads can reduce friction.
• Caliper Maintenance – Lubricate caliper guide pins and replace sealing elements to prevent binding and uneven pad wear.
• Hose replacement – Hoses should be replaced every 3-5 years. Over time, they lose elasticity and can cause pressure loss, which affects brake performance.

Signs and causes of defects

Brake system malfunctions can cause a variety of symptoms that indicate the need for immediate diagnosis or repair. Here are the most common symptoms and their possible causes:

1. Brake fluid level warning light

If the brake fluid level warning light comes on on the dashboard, it usually indicates a fluid leak in the system. This can also be noticed by colored puddles under the vehicle, often near the wheels, or after the car has been parked for a long time.

• Possible causes: Leaking hoses, damaged seals or an old, worn brake system.

2. Colorful puddles under the vehicle

Colored puddles under your vehicle can be a clear sign of a brake fluid leak. This problem can be serious, as the loss of brake fluid directly affects the performance of the braking system.

3. Increased pedal travel or low pedal resistance

If the brake pedal feels very “soft” and requires more pressure than usual, this may indicate air in the brake system or a fluid leak. This symptom can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the brakes.

• Possible causes: Air bubbles in the system, brake fluid leak, worn hoses or pistons.

4. Uneven pad wear or caliper problems

The car may start to “pull” to one side when braking, which is often a sign of a seized caliper or unevenly worn brake pads. This can also cause vibrations and noises when braking.

• Possible causes: Jammed caliper, worn brake pads or deformed discs.

Main causes of defects

• Irregular component replacement: Over time, if brake system parts, such as brake pads, discs, or calipers, are not replaced in a timely manner, this can lead to inefficient system operation and damage.
• Wear and tear of hoses and seals: Over time, rubber hoses and seals lose elasticity, crack and can no longer maintain the necessary pressure in the brake system, causing leaks and loss of pressure.
• Damage to dust boots: If dust boots are worn or damaged, dirt and moisture can get to important parts of the brake system, causing corrosion and seizing.
• Aggressive driving: Hard braking and aggressive driving can lead to deformation of brake discs, as well as cause excessive wear of brake pads and other components.

Regular inspection of the brake system and timely replacement of parts is essential to avoid these malfunctions and guarantee safe driving.

In the 1313.lv online store you will find all the necessary parts for your vehicle’s brake system or other systems. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact us.