Apart from the actual engine, the braking system might be the most important system of the car. Why? Without brakes, you will never be able to stop which means that the car is just a metallic wagon.

So, what makes up this incredible lifesaving system? You will be surprised how simple the system is yet how practical the input is. That is why this structure is has been around for such a long time.

Starting from the inside of the car, you will have the pedal which puts you in control of the braking system. This pedal is connected to the master cylinder which is linked to the wheel cylinders and callipers with pipes that contain the fluid.

The master cylinder basically works like a plunger: every time you apply the pedal, you are compressing hydraulic oil into the pipes. The master cylinder is located in front of the driver’s seat. Usually, the master cylinder has two plungers in one housing unit. Each cylinder controls the braking of two wheels for safer deceleration. Problem that you could experience with the master cylinder includes internal leaking or air bubbles.

The calliper is the outer layer of the rest of the system. A calliper is a device that contains two arms for gripping onto something. It is quite similar to a piston in appearance. In this instance, the calliper is attached to the brake pads to cover the brake disc.

Some cars have drum brakes installed at the rear wheels. Fluid would be forced into the wheel cylinders which will push the brake shoes out. Linings will then be pressed against the drum causing the car to slow down. The drum brake consists of a wheel cylinder, the linings, the shoes and the drum that houses it altogether.

Overall, a braking system includes the pedal, master cylinder, brake pipes or hoses, wheel cylinders, callipers, brake pads and brake discs. Surrounding the system is the wheel hub, and the back plate.

Before replacing any part of the braking system, the mechanic will have to look at which type of structure the car uses whether it is a brake disc or drum brake. From that point the mechanic can easily fix any problems you might be having that have accumulated over time. By having sufficient knowledge of the braking system will allow the mechanic to select the correct components for your particular type of car.