The brake systems on modern vehicles typically consist of drum brakes in the rear and disk brakes in the front. The brakes are controlled by the master cylinder which is connected to the system by a series of hoses and tubes. These braking systems are critical in and need to work perfectly to keep you safe while driving in Chevy Chase. As such, they require regular checks and services. How Brakes Work When you step on the brake pedal you activate a plunger in the master cylinder. This forces the brake fluid hydraulic oil that does not compress) through the brake lines to the brake unit at each wheel. While the fluid can wind easily through the tubes, it acts like a steel rod, causing an instantaneous reaction. It arrives at the brake units with the same pressure it originated with. On a disk brake, the fluid enters a caliper and presses a piston. The piston squeezes the brake pads against the rotor (disk). The friction forces the car to slow and eventually stop. On drum brakes, the brake fluid flows into the wheel cylinder. This, in turn, pushes brake shoes out and against the drum attached directly to the wheel. Again, friction slows the wheel. Disc Brake Repair Noise is one of the most common issues you will encounter with disc brakes. You might hear squealing, screeching, or grinding. Technicians might be able to eliminate the problem by filling or flushing the brake fluid. If that is ineffective then you might require new brake pads. If there are more serious grinding noises when you use your brakes, you might need both new brake pads and rotors. Drum Brake Repair Drum brakes are made to automatically adjust as you reverse and use the brakes. However, the self-adjuster can wear out or get stuck. You might notice it in the way you have to press down harder on the brake pedal to get the appropriate response from your brakes. The self-adjuster might be over-adjusted if the brakes lock up. Fill or Flush Brake Fluid To work properly, your brakes heavily rely on the brake fluid. Technicians will regularly check brake fluid levels. If it is low, technicians can fill it and test the brake lines for leaks. However, if your brakes feel spongy or delayed, then it could mean the brake fluid is contaminated. Air or dirt in the brake lines can cause this kind of failure. If this is the case, the technician will flush the brake lines and refill them with fresh fluid. Brake repair, while important, can be complex and not something drivers undertake on their own. One mistake could inhibit your car’s ability to slow down and stop, endangering you and others. The last thing you want is an auto accident resulting in serious injury. Trust your
Chevy Chase, MD brake repairs to the professionals at Auto Clinic Care. Call our office today. Or visit us at 5531 Nicholson Ln., Ste. A, Rockville, MD 20852. We have factory-level equipment and ASE certified technicians who can handle brake repairs on almost any make and model.