Main Automotive Braking Components

Bringing a car to a complete stop is something most motorists do on a regular basis. The modern vehicle has a variety of different braking components that help to ensure a driver can stop in a hurry. The major automotive braking parts you need to know about are:

• Brake Master Cylinder- When you press down the brake pedal in your care, your master cylinder is activated. This cylinder acts as a plunger and when it is activated, it releases brake fluid into your brake lines.
• Brake Lines- The average brake line is made from steel and is designed to carry brake fluid from y our master cylinder to the wheels. The pressure from this fluid is what helps bring your car to a stop.
• Drums/Rotors- The rotors/drums are located behind the tires on your car. Your brake pads press up against these circular pieces of metal. The friction from this process helps to bring your car to a stop.
• Brake Pads- The brake pads are mounted in your calipers. These pads are made from metal composite materials and last for thousands of miles.

As you can see, the average car has many different components that make its braking system operate.

How Often Do Braking Components Need To Be Replaced?

If you are new to the world of car maintenance and repair, you may be wondering how often you need to replace the components covered previously. The answer to this question is more complicated than you probably realize. The main braking components that will have to be replaced are the brake pads and rotors.

In most cases, the brake pads on a car will last around 15,000 miles. The rotors can last up to 70,000 miles before they have to be replaced. Keeping up with these important milestones can help you avoid driving on worn braking components.

What kind of driver are you? 

Aggressive with hard turns and fast stops?  Stopping the brakes or soft taps?  Your brake life directly ties into how you drive and brake pads will need to be changed more often based on your driving habits and the number of miles you travel.  It isn't just how long it has been since your last brake job.

What brand of brakes did you use last time?   

The material in brake pads can vary greatly from one manufacturer to another. There are pads that are composites of organic compounds, semi-metallic pads, and ceramic pads, and their wear rates are all different.

Do you often tow a trailer, haul heavy loads, or drive through steep terrain? 

The extra braking force needed for any of those will wear out brake pads faster. With all that in mind, brake pads typically last anywhere from 35,000 to 60,000 miles, depending on the above factors. What's maybe more important to know, though, is the warning signs that you do need new brakes.

You will notice certain warnings signs when these braking components need to be replaced. These signs include things like:

• High-pitched screeching
• Noticeable grinding noises
• A vibrating steering wheel

When you notice one or more of these problems, you need to visit a trusted mechanic to get your damaged braking components replaced.

The Cost of Brake Repair

The overall cost of brake repair depends on how severe your issues are. For instance, if you need a complete brake repair overhaul, which includes caliper, rotor and brake pad replacement, then you will spend upwards of $1,000 to get this work done. If you just need new brake pads, then you can probably get these replacement parts for around $100 or less.

Why Brake Maintenance is Important

Driving a car that has reduced stopping power can be extremely dangerous. The best way to avoid the safety issues caused by damaged braking components is by maintaining this important system. With the help of an experienced mechanic, you can get your braking components inspected.

If these professionals find problems like a brake fluid leak or damaged brake pads, they can take action immediately. With the help of a mechanic, you can keep your braking system running like a well-oiled machine.