If you’ve ever wondered how disc brakes work or if you think your car may be having problems with them, it’s essential to understand what they do and how they work. This can help you recognize an issue and know what to do about it if there is one. Here’s everything you need to know about disc brakes and common problems.
Comparing Disc Brakes with Drum Brakes
Disc brakes are the newer technology appearing on cars in the 1960s. They work by using a caliper to press two brake pads against a spinning disc or rotor. The friction slows down the rotation of the wheel. Drum brakes are an older technology, first appearing on cars in the 1930s. They work by using shoes that press against the inside of a spinning drum. Again, the friction from the shoes slows down the wheel’s rotation.
Disc Brake Problems
If you’re having car trouble and your disc brakes are to blame, don’t worry. In this blog post, we’ll explain how disc brakes work and some of their most common problems. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to do if you’re experiencing brake issues.
Ease of Maintenance
Disc brakes are generally easy to maintain. You can check the pads for the reservoir’s wear and tear fluid level. Every few months, it’s a good idea to bring your vehicle to your mechanic, who can clean the calipers and rotors with brake cleaner to prevent the build-up of brake dust. If your car’s brake pedal feels soft or spongy, it’s time to get your vehicle to a professional.
Benefits of Disc Brakes Over Drum Brakes
Disc brakes offer several advantages over drum brakes. They dissipate heat better, so they don’t fade quickly under heavy braking. They’re also less prone to brake fade, where the brake pads or shoes lose friction material due to high temperatures. In addition, disc brakes self-adjust more effectively, so you’re less likely to get your car trouble for a mechanic to fix them. Finally, disc brakes look nicer than drum brakes!
Hydraulic vs. Mechanical
The main difference between hydraulic and mechanical disc brakes is how they transfer force from the lever to the caliper. A hydraulic system uses fluid to push the brake pads against the rotor. In a mechanical system, a cable pulls the caliper pistons together. The only mechanical brake still in use in modern cars is the parking brake.
Most cars on the road now feature 4-wheel disc brakes, while some will have disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. While disc brakes have become the industry standard due to ease of maintenance and superior performance, it’s still essential to get any issues checked by a professional as soon as they are noticed.
