Helpful Automotive Resources
Drum Brakes vs. Disc Brakes: Learn Their DifferenceWhen the driver presses the brake pedal, a device, called the master cylinder, sends pressurized brake fluid through a collection of lines to a caliper or wheel cylinder at each wheel. The calipers and/or wheel cylinders then activate the friction brakes to slow the wheels and bring the vehicle to Why Are My Brakes Smoking?This can be a frightening scenario, especially for new drivers. Seeing smoke or smelling something burnt when stepping on the brakes is certainly not a good sign—but why is it happening?
How Long Do Brake Rotors Last?Traffic conditions can also play a factor in wearing out your brake rotors. Heavy traffic means you’ll apply your brakes more often, which can contribute to faster rotor deterioration. Your typical driving speed may also play a role—the faster you drive, the hotter your rotors will get when braking.
Good Brakes vs. Bad BrakesOften found in older vehicles, brake drums contain two curved shoes that are lined with friction material. When the wheel turns, the shoes barely touch the surface of the drum. However, when the brakes are pressed, hydraulic fluid transfers the braking force and pushes the shoes outward. This lets the How Do Car Brakes Work?Stepping on the pedal activates its lever and its connected piston. Powered by your foot, the lever forces a piston inside the master cylinder. The piston then displaces brake fluid out of the cylinder and into the lines that lead to either the brake calipers (in a disc brake system)