It’s a sunny afternoon, you’re cruising down the road, and suddenly the car ahead slams on its brakes. You hit your brakes too, and thankfully, your vehicle stops safely. Have you ever wondered exactly how your brakes can bring a multi-ton machine to a complete stop with just the push of a pedal? At Tire Depot, we want to help you understand how your brakes work and why regular brake service is essential for your safety.
The Science Behind Brakes
Brakes are an incredible invention that converts the kinetic energy of a moving vehicle into heat through friction, allowing your car to slow down and stop safely. When you press the brake pedal, a lever pushes hydraulic fluid through lines to the brake calipers located at each wheel. The calipers press the brake pads against the rotors (or the shoes against a drum in drum brakes), generating friction that slows the wheels and stops your car.
Disc Brakes vs. Drum Brakes
- Disc Brakes: Most modern vehicles use disc brakes, which feature a metal rotor that spins with the wheel. Pressing the brake pedal squeezes the pads against the rotor, creating friction to slow the wheel.
- Drum Brakes: Common on older vehicles, drum brakes have shoes inside a drum. Pressing the pedal pushes the shoes outward to rub the drum’s interior, slowing the wheel.
Both systems rely on friction and hydraulic pressure to operate, making them reliable and efficient—but only if maintained properly.
Why Regular Brake Maintenance Matters
Your brakes are critical for your safety, which is why regular inspections and service are essential. Worn pads, low brake fluid, or damaged components can reduce stopping power and increase the risk of an accident. At Tire Depot Automotive Services, our skilled technicians perform comprehensive brake inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep your vehicle stopping smoothly and reliably.
Don’t wait until a small problem becomes a big one. Protect your vehicle and your passengers with expert brake service from the team you trust.
