Brake Pads
Brakes are the means by which the driver is able to slow the car down or bring it to a complete stop. Each wheel has its own brake, and there are two main types of car brakes – disc brakes and drum brakes.
Disc brakes work via sets of callipers and brake pads, which apply friction to the outside of the brake discs to stop it spinning.
Drum brakes work on the same basic principle but utilise brake shoes within a cylinder to provide their stopping power.
Brake Discs
A major component of your car’s braking system, the brake disc sits on the wheel hub and slows the vehicle down when the brakes are applied through the use of friction. Your vehicle’s brake pads ‘grab’ onto either side of the brake discs through the application of a hydraulic piston. This reduces the speed of the vehicle and allows it to come to a safe stop.
Although made of high tensile steel, brake discs for any make and model of car can become worn or pitted over time, and will eventually need replacing. Worn brake discs can produce inefficient braking results, so it is important to check your discs regularly and only use high quality brake discs and pads.