There are a lot of things that go into making sure your braking system is functioning properly. Knowing the job of each component helps, but you still need to maintain them for efficiency. Without a good braking system, you’ll risk the integrity of your entire vehicle.
1. Brake Fluid
Brake fluid refills are a common thing when you get serviced at Toyota dealers Salt Lake City. Brake fluids are considered a vital part of the hydraulics system. Every time you push the brake pedal, the brake fluid surges through the components and expands against the wheels. Replacing these fluids are a simple process, but some vehicle owners wait too long. If your vehicle doesn’t specifically alert you to low brake fluid, then following a normal maintenance schedule is your safest bet.
2. Brake Pads
When you push down on the brake, the brake pads do their job by squeezing the rotor. The pads are made to last up to 40,000 miles, with higher quality brake pads lasting even longer. Brake pads have an actual alert that is built into their actual materials. When your pads are wearing thin, you’ll hear an audible squeaking sound as the materials touch the brake disc. This sound is the warning that you are already late for getting your brake pads checked!
3. Calipers
When the brake pedal is pushed, calipers push the brake pads against the rotors. Calipers work in tandem with multiple parts of the braking system by providing the friction needed for a smooth stop. If you ever feel a vibration in the steering wheel during a stop, there is a good chance that the calipers stressed out. That means components like the rotors and brake pads are on their last leg, and that in turn forces the calipers to take up the bulk of the work. Waiting too long for brake maintenance will cause multiple subsystems (including the calipers) to fail.
4. Drums
Drums are usually found on the rear of the vehicle. This part of the brake system uses springs to expand the pads against the inside of the drum. Brake drums are highly resistant to damage and wear, and are usually made out of strong materials like cast iron. Since it takes less hydraulic force than other parts of the braking system, drums tend to be one of the last things to fail. But upkeep is key here, as drums are not invincible to long-term damage like brake fade or warping.
5. Rotors
This rotating disc can be found behind the wheel assembly. When you press down on the brake pedal, the clamps on both side of the rotor activate. Over time, there is a lot of heat buildup from this action that will make the rotors less effective. Maintaining a rotor will delay the need for costly replacements during an inspection.
Protect Your Vehicle
It’s an investment that is prone to depreciating, so why not protect it? A well-maintained braking system will keep a car running for multiple years. Even when your smartphone gets replaced, your car will still be in its ultimate prime.