How Brakes Work
When you're driving on the road, your vehicle uses kinetic energy, or energy in motion, to help move it along at quick speeds. Your brakes work to eliminate that kinetic energy by using friction, which changes the kinetic energy to heat. Putting your foot on your brake pedal transmits hydraulic fluid through a series of pipes into a variety of cylinders next to the brakes on your wheels. This system multiplies the force you apply on your brakes to cause your vehicle to slow to a stop.
Most vehicles consist of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels (you can find out what types of brakes your vehicles have by consulting your owner's manual). Disc brakes, located on your front wheels, are made up of brake discs, calipers, and pads. When you press down on your brake pedal, the hydraulic fluid in your brakes cause your caliper to press your brake pad against your brake's disc. This creates friction, which allows your vehicle to slow down. Drum brakes, which are equipped on your back wheels, consist of a brake drum and brake shoes. When you press down on your brake pedal, the brake shoes push against the surface of your brake drums, slowing your back wheels to a stop.
Brake Maintenance Tips
Want to make sure your brakes last as long as possible? Use a few of our tips below to increase your safety on the road:
- Keep a consistent maintenance schedule: You should have your brakes inspected every 12,000 miles, or whenever your vehicle owner's manual tells you to. If you aren't sure when you last had your brakes inspected, schedule an appointment with us to have them looked at right away!
- Watch your speeds: Driving at high speeds increases the kinetic energy of your vehicle, which means braking at higher speeds can generate more heat on your brake pads. Too much heat can wear your brake pads down at a very fast rate, so make sure to watch your speeds on the road!
- Carry less: If you tend to travel with a lot in your vehicle, that additional weight can generate more friction when you brake, which can wear your brake's components down at a much faster rate than normal. Carry less when you drive to prevent this from happening!
- Practice coasting: Working hand in hand with watching your speed, coasting can help to generate less kinetic energy when you eventually have to brake, which will extend the life of your brakes. Try to coast more so that your brakes last longer!
- Pay attention to signs of wear: Your brakes are equipped with a variety of safety measures and components to inform you when certain parts are in need of repair. Make sure you know how to spot the signs of brake wear so you know when to get your brakes looked at!
At North Brothers Ford, your safety is our top priority. We want you and your passengers to be the safest they can be on the on the road, no matter how short or long your drive may be. Knowing how your brakes work and brake maintenance tips can make the difference between you and an accident. If you want to remain proactive to prevent any damage to your brakes, read up on our brake service advice to find out more information about brake care. Need your brakes looked at? Schedule a brake inspection with us and use our service specials and coupons to save money on your next service!
North Brothers Ford is located at 33300 Ford Rd Westland, MI 48185 and proudly serves as one of the premier dealerships in Metro Detroit, and is committed to exceptional customer service! Stop by or give us a call at 888-806-7163, our knowledgeable and helpful sales team will be more than happy to assist you!
Visit our website: http://www.northbrosford.net
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