Your brakes use fluid to transfer the force from your foot stepping on the pedal to the brakes stopping car. This is called a hydraulic system. An everyday example is a squeeze bottle: you open the lid, squeeze the bottle, and ketchup or mustard comes out.

Your brakes work in a similar way, but in a fully sealed system so all the pressure transfers to the brakes. Here’s what happens when you push on your brake pedal:

1. You step on the brake pedal and activate the master cylinder.
2. The master cylinder uses a piston to build pressure in the brake fluid that fills the brake hoses.
3. This pressure activates the brake at each wheel.

Every component in that process has to be in good working order for the system to perform as intended and keep you and others on the road safe.

Master Cylinder

This component is a foot-operated pump. It forces brake fluid through the lines and hoses to the calipers or wheel cylinders. Any malfunctions here will affect the rest of the brake system.

Brake Fluid

Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and leads to corrosion inside the braking system. A golden colour to start, brake fluid turns black as it becomes contaminated. A fluid flush every couple of years is a simple, cost-effective way to extend the life of your brakes.

Brake Lines, Hoses, and Hardware

Brake lines carry fluid through the braking system and must be leak-free to function properly. Brake hardware, like clips, pins, and springs, keeps the pads seated properly and prevents noisy braking. These components are inspected as part of a complete brake service.

Brake Rotors and Drums

Rotors take a beating every time you brake, and over time they can warp, score, or develop rust grooves, especially due to harsh Canadian winters. A vibrating brake pedal or steering wheel is often the first sign something’s off.

When brakes overheat, rotors can develop hot spots that warp when they cool. In the best case, a rotor can be turned and made true again — otherwise, it needs to be replaced. Rotors and drums should always be replaced in pairs.

Brake Calipers

Calipers don’t wear as quickly as pads or rotors, but salty roads can cause corrosion and seized pistons. Brake calipers can become stuck or malfunction, leading to uneven braking or premature pad wear. Catching it early can save money down the road.

Brake Pads and Shoes

Brake pads and shoes are friction materials in disc and drum brake systems. Depending on your driving habits and vehicle, they typically last between 30,000 and 75,000 kilometres. A technician can measure exactly how much life is left and tell you whether you’re good to go or due for a change.

When your brake pad thickness measures 3 mm or less, your technician will recommend having them replaced.

Don’t wait until you experience or see problems with your brake system. Many components are deep inside the car, anyway, so you won’t always see them. A regular inspection can find minor issues that can be repaired for much less than replacing any of the larger components.

No matter what Canadian roads and weather throw your way, NAPA AUTOPRO is ready to keep your brake system in peak condition.

Find your nearest NAPA AUTOPRO service centre and book your appointment today at napaautopro.com.