How do my Disc Brakes Work?
The parts of a disc brake system are the caliper, pads, and rotor (or disc). The caliper contains one or more pistons which are driven hydraulically. The piston pushes, which causes the pads to squeeze the rotor evenly, from both sides. This friction adds load to the wheel, resulting (hopefully) in the stopping or slowing of the vehicle due to the conversion of kinetic energy to heat energy.
The body of the caliper is generally made of either cast iron or aluminum.
Aluminum handles heat nearly as well as cast iron and is considerably lighter,
reducing the unsprung mass. Rotors are generally either steel or aluminum
clad with steel, but in racing and extreme high-performance street applications
carbon fiber brake rotors are now being used to further reduce unsprung
mass. Some supercars (for example, Ferrari and Lamborghini) are fitted with
Brembo carbon fiber brake rotors at the factory.
Brake pads are generally made out of some high-carbon compound which may
contain steel, carbon fiber, or other high-strength and high-temperature
materials. There are also a variety of ceramic brake pads now available
which are supposed to outlast the car.
How do I maintain my disc brakes?
Disc brakes are very easy to maintain and very easy to inspect for wear.
Here are some things to look for when inspecting your brake system.
Inspect: Check the brake fluid level. The fluid level should only need to be slightly topped off occasionally. If more than 2 oz. of fluid is needed, the brake system should be inspected for leaks and component wear. Add only the recommended type of brake fluid as listed in the owner's manual. Do not add any other fluid to the brake fluid reservoir. The fluid in the reservoir should be clear in appearance and free of dirt and debris.
Replace: Brake fluid retains moisture and should be flushed and re-bled (remove the air from the system) to keep brakes working effectively.Flush the brake fluid at least every 50,000 miles.
Check brake pad and shoe wear. Don't wait until you hear grinding noises to have the brakes inspected. Have brakes checked periodically for wear. Some warning signs of brake problems are: noises when brakes are applied, the steering wheel shakes when brakes are applied, needing to add more than 2 oz of brake fluid to the brake fluid reservoir, a soft or squishy brake pedal, or the brake pedal goes to the floor slowly while brakes are depressed.
Ask to have your brakes inspected when your tires are rotated and they should do it for free!
