The Brake System

We all know that an automobile's brake system is used to slow or stop its wheels. However, you may not be aware that almost all brakes can be classified into two categories: drum brake systems and disc brake systems.

We'll discuss both of these systems in detail in upcoming study units. In the past, the automotive brake system had a serious disadvantage. If the driver needed to suddenly apply the vehicle's brakes, the wheels would tend to lock up (stop turning). This would cause the car to slide on the road surface, creating two dangerous problems. First, the sliding motion would increase the distance required to stop the vehicle. Second, when a car slides with its wheels locked, the driver can't steer it. Either one of these situations could cause the car to be involved in an accident.

For this reason, most new cars are equipped with electronically controlled brake systems called antilock systems. An antilock system prevents the wheels from locking up during sudden stops. In addition, since stopping a vehicle quickly and safely is so important, many new cars also contain electronic systems that monitor and control the braking action. These systems have helped to make vehicles safer and have reduced the number of accidents.

More on various brakes systems, click here, for a complete brake system tutor