What’s stopping you?

The braking system of your car is a key safety feature – brakes are the sole component that enables you to quickly slow down or stop your car. Your car’s braking system has to be able to endure enormous forces, pressures, and strains put on it day-in day-out. But have you ever stopped to think about what it actually takes for the brakes to stop your car?

What happens when I apply the brakes?

When your foot presses the brake pedal, this movement is converted into hydraulic pressure. This pressure is transferred to the wheels via an incompressible liquid (brake fluid). This pressure actuates a calliper which forces the pads against the disc. During braking, the kinetic energy is changed into heat through friction. The temperatures can reach up to 800°C, so the brake pads and discs must be able to withstand and dissipate the heat.

If the pads are worn or faulty there is a risk that the brake disc will be damaged. You also risk losing control of the car following hard braking.

What are the tell-tale signs that there is a problem with my brakes?

• You have to press hard on the brake pedal to brake (pedal is stiff): this may be a problem with the assisted braking system.
• The car pulls to the left or right when you brake: it may be that a brake calliper has seized or that a tyre is under inflated.
• The brakes lock up even when the brakes are applied gently: this may be a problem with the bake discs.
• Braking is soft, the pedal is spongy or you have to pump the brakes to stop: this is a problem with the hydraulics.
• The brake pedal, steering wheel, and sometimes the car vibrate when braking: the brake discs are faulty or there is loose or excessive play in the suspension.

What are the right brakes for my car?

Compatibility of brake pads and brake discs is vital – if the compound of the brake pads is too hard, this can cause increased wear of the brake discs – and if the compound is too soft, then the brake pads can prematurely wear. Both brake pads on the same axle should be replaced at the same time to avoid unequal braking.

Whenever your brakes are checked, the brake discs should also be checked. If they are deeply scored, glazed, cracked, or rusty, they should be replaced. As with brake pads, both discs on the same axel should be replaced at the same time to avoid unequal braking.

If you are in any doubt, Milburn of Ashington MasterFit can offer expert advice and will always fit Genuine Vauxhall brake pads and discs to ensure quality, fit, and correct brake pad/disc compatibility.

You’re miles better off @ Milburn Vauxhall.