Car brakes used OE

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What are the main parts of a car's braking system?

The car’s braking system is a critical safety feature. When the brake pedal is pressed, it activates the master cylinder. This unit immediately pressurises the hydraulic fluid, which then travels through the hoses towards the wheels assemblies.

The specific stopping action varies by system type. In disc brakes, the pressurised fluid moves the caliper. This mechanism squeezes the brake pads tightly against the rotating discs (or rotors), which are attached directly to the hubs.

Drum brakes operate differently: a wheel cylinder pushes the brake shoes outward, forcing them against the inner surface of the drum. Moreover, the proportioning valve ensures correct hydraulic pressure distribution between the front and rear axles, while the essential ABS modulator actively prevents dangerous wheel lock-up during sudden stops.

What are the signs my car brakes need replacing?

If your braking system signals trouble, immediate inspection is essential. These warnings usually indicate component wear or hydraulic failure.

Indicators fall into three main categories: what you hear (audible cues), what you feel (tactile feedback), and how the vehicle handles.

Regarding audible cues, a high-pitched squealing means the metal wear indicator is contacting the disc (rotor). A harsh grinding sound confirms severe wear - the pads are completely gone, scraping metal on metal.

If the pedal feels soft or spongy underfoot, air or moisture may be contaminating the hydraulic fluid. In contrast, a vibrating or pulsating pedal during deceleration often signals warped rotors.

Uneven braking force, such as the vehicle pulling sharply to one side, suggests a restricted hose or a sticking caliper. Visually, pads must be replaced immediately if the friction material appears noticeably thin.

The role of brake fluid and hydraulic components

Brake fluid is vital for safe vehicle operation, but its biggest threat is moisture absorption. Water contamination severely compromises the hydraulic system, drastically lowering the liquid's boiling point. Under high heat, this leads to 'vapour lock'—the fluid turns gaseous, causing a loss of pressure. This results in a dangerous spongy pedal or complete braking failure during heavy use.

Beyond the fluid itself, component failures also diminish stopping power. For example, a collapsed brake hose can restrict hydraulic return, causing the brake to drag. Similarly, a fault within the master cylinder can induce an unintended 'auto-apply effect'. To mitigate these risks and ensure optimal responsiveness and driver safety, brake fluid replacement is mandatory every two years.

Understanding the cost of brake replacement parts

The cost of replacing your brakes fluctuates significantly, primarily depending on the vehicle type and the specific components required.

For standard passenger cars, replacing just the brake pads typically costs between £50 and £200 per axle (parts only). A full overhaul (pads and discs) for budget vehicles ranges from £200 to £700 for parts alone.

Expect prices to climb steeply for luxury, large, or high-performance models. These vehicles require specialized materials and unique engineering, making replacement components considerably more expensive.

Always account for labour fees. These rates are determined by your chosen garage and are calculated separately from the component prices when compiling the final repair bill.

What is the difference between disc and drum brakes?

The core difference between disc and drum braking systems lies in thermal management and overall stopping capability.

Disc brakes offer superior precision and stopping power, crucial for high performance. Their open design allows heat to dissipate quickly, effectively preventing thermal fade, even under heavy, repeated use. Maintenance is also simpler.

Conversely, drum brakes are a more economical alternative. Their enclosed structure enhances durability by shielding components, but this enclosure easily traps heat, making them prone to thermal fading during prolonged braking. They are typically relegated to the vehicle's less demanding rear axle.

What does a professional brake inspection include?

  1. Initial assessment: Specialists discuss vehicle symptoms and visually check brake pads and discs (rotors), assessing friction material thickness.

  2. System assessment: The vehicle is lifted for a complete hydraulic system check. Mechanics thoroughly inspect:

  • hoses, calipers, and lines for leaks or mechanical faults,

  • tyre treads, as uneven wear suggests misalignment or worn suspension parts,

  • tyre pressures against manufacturer specifications,

  • shock absorbers for signs of leaking,

  • all related safety components for optimal function.

  1. Final consultation: You receive tailored advice on driving habits that impact brake longevity and recommended maintenance schedules drawn from the owner’s manual.

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