How Do Car Brakes Work?

How Does the Brake System Work?

That primarily depends on what type of brake you are talking about. There are two main types of brakes: disc and drum, and then, there’s the hand brake. Every car has a hand brake, but depending on the model you may have a disc or drum brake. They work as follows:

How Disc Brakes Work

If you look through the hubcap of a car’s wheel, you may see a metal disc. That is the “disc” of the disc brakes. When you press the brakes, a hydraulic system pinches the spinning disk between a pair of brake pads. This causes the car’s wheels to slow down and stop. These car brakes work similarly to the brakes found on a bike.

How Drum Brakes Work

There are some cases where cars have drum brakes on their rear wheels. Their system is quite different from disc brakes. Drum brakes are built inside of the wheel. First, imagine a metal cylinder that rotates with the wheel. Inside that cylinder, there are two brake pads that face out toward the interior of the cylinder and are connected by a piston in the middle. When you apply the brakes, brake fluid fills the piston, which pushes out the pads, which then press against the interior of the cylinder, bringing the car to a stop.

How the Handbrake Works

The handbrake is the simplest of the three brake systems and is entirely mechanical instead of hydraulic. Usually,it’s found between the front seats of the car. It’s intended for emergency braking. When you pull the handbrake, a system of levers pulls on a pair of cables. Those cables engage the brakes on the back wheels. The more you pull, the tighter the handbrake.

Come to Mercedes-Benz of North Olmsted to Receive Expert Brake Service

Now you know more about just how brakes work. Remember, if your brakes are showing wear or if you’re hearing a strange noise every time you brake, it’s best to bring your vehicle in! Our service center’s expert technicians are always here to help. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions you still have, or if you want to schedule an appointment near Avon.