Braking

Overview

The brake system is the most important safety system on the vehicle. This module covers disc and drum brakes, master cylinders, brake boosters, calipers, brake fluid, brake lines, and the inspection and service procedures every technician must know. When brakes fail, people die — there is no room for shortcuts.

Key Components

• Master cylinder and brake booster
• Disc brake calipers and pads
• Drum brake shoes and hardware
• Brake rotors and drums
• Brake lines, hoses, and fluid

How It Works

When you press the brake pedal, the booster multiplies your foot force and the master cylinder converts it to hydraulic pressure. That pressure travels through brake lines to the calipers (or wheel cylinders), which press friction material against the rotating disc (or drum) to create the friction that stops the vehicle.

Common Problems

• Pulsation from warped or thickness-variation rotors
• Pulling from stuck caliper slide pins

Diagnostic Tips

• Measure rotor thickness variation with a micrometer, not just visual
• Check caliper slide pins — most brake pull complaints live here

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