Brake Systems Break Down
Brake systems can be broken down into two major categories: Disk Brakes and Drum Brakes. Though drum brakes and disk brakes essentially do the same task, they have a very different list of associated parts and service recommendations. A perfect example of this difference is the main wear parts of each brake type. A disk brake system uses pads that are squeezed against a rotor which stops the wheel from turning. Both the pads and rotor wear quickly from the high levels of heat produced by friction when braking. A drum brake uses shoes that press against a drum to stop the wheels from turning. Much like a disk brake system, a drum brake system's shoes and drums wear out frequently. Though disk and drum brake systems are different, they do have common parts such as steel brake lines, flexible rubber hoses, fittings, and fluid reservoirs, that all need to be maintained as well. Keeping your brake system maintained is an absolute necessity to keep you and everyone around you safe!