The 411 on Car Brakes

Everyone at some point in their driving experience has had to slam on their brakes. We all have tried to overlook getting them checked, but braking is an indispensable part of driving and you need to know you can rely on them at all times. Without proper care you put yourself and everyone else on the road in danger. Out of all the amazing features of your vehicle none of them matter if your brakes do not function properly. So it is very important to know the importance of brake maintenance and what to look for when checking them. The Orlando Toyota Dealership is here to inform you on all you need to know about how your brakes actually work, how to keep up with their maintenance, and how to save along the way. 

Getting to know your brakes

In order to understand brake service you need to know about the five main parts of your system and how they work. Your brakes are composed of:

• Brake pads
• Rotors (Brake Discs)
• Calipers
• Lines
• Master cylinder 

The master cylinder acts as the heart of your brake system. It is the holder and distributer of brake fluid in your vehicle. It sends out fluid through your brake lines to all of the necessary parts of the system to make your wheels come to a halt. Therefore, if there is a leak in the brake lines or fluid reservoir the energy necessary to make the car come to a stop will not be exerted. Thus, it is paramount that you have your master cylinder, lines, and brake fluid checked regularly.

Toyota of Orlando talks brake mechanics

The brake calipers, pads, and rotors make up the mechanical component of your brakes. Calipers encompass a portion of each rotor where there is a piston. Your wheels have the ability to stop spinning when pressure is applied to your brake pads. This is due to the hydraulic power that comes from the pushing of fluid from the cylinder when you press down the pedal of your car. This energy then goes from the brake lines to the master cylinder to the calipers. 

At this time your brake pads connect with the rotors of your vehicle to allow for the slowing of your car. However, if your brake pads are severely worn they will not be capable of making an easy connection with the brake discs. And a rough connection will lead to rough spots and uneven grooves for your rotors. 

To avoid having to pay the expensive price of rotor repair make sure your brake pads are always sized to the specifications according to your owner’s manual and that they are not getting worn down too much. If you’re thinking that you are clueless on how to determine something like this, you are not alone. 

Fortunately modern automobile makers have equipped brake pads with wear indicators that will make a squealing noise to signal it is time for replacement. Toyota of Orlando recommends always consulting your owner’s manual for the correct maintenance schedule of your brakes. It is also recommended that you inspect the wear of brake pads around every 12,000 miles. 

Now that you know how your brakes work remember to always be mindful of its five components. If you come in and visit our Orlando Toyota Dealership we can do a complete inspection for you as well as change your brake fluid. Call and schedule your appointment and stop in and see us at 3575 Vineland Road.