Vehicle Brakes 101
Vehicle brakes are one of the most important parts of all automobiles as they impact performance and safety. Hence, you must pay close attention to your brakes and get them serviced when necessary. Your brakes should be in excellent working condition all year round. In today’s blog, we will discuss the difference between disc brakes, drum brakes, anti-lock brakes, and emergency/parking brakes.
Disc Brakes
Most vehicles on the road today have a disc brake system that comprises calipers, rotors, brake pads, and hydraulic fluid. To stop your car, the brake pads and the rotor produce friction to slow down the spinning wheels on the vehicle. Disc brakes are preferred because they are better at dissipating heat and more reliable in various weather conditions.
Drum Brakes
Drum brakes are an alternative to disc brakes, but they are both similar in the fact that they use hydraulic pressure and friction to make your car stop. These are as common as they used to be, but they can be found in rear brakes on some cars today. They cost less to manufacture and replace, and some people argue that they require less maintenance than disc brake systems. Some major downsides of having drum brakes is that they are more susceptible to rusting and can overheat easier than disc brakes.
Anti-Lock Brakes
Newer vehicles have anti-lock brake systems programmed to detect if and when your wheels lock up. The system uses multiple sensors on each wheel, and it is engaged when it catches your wheels’ movements. To prevent your wheels from locking up, or your car from hydroplaning, it delivers vibrations to the affected wheels to assist with regaining traction. This secondary braking system has made improvements for drivers who often ride in wet and snowy conditions.
Emergency Brakes
Emergency brakes or parking brakes keep your immobilized when parked. You should always use these brakes when parking to relieve some of the stress put on the transmission. Additionally, they are also intended for use when your service brakes fail.
Brake Service in La Pine, OR
If you require brake repairs, do not hesitate to call or visit the auto repair specialists at Integrity Auto Services today! Your safety is always our top priority.