Chevy Brakes

Brakes: How Many and What Types are There?

There are two -- disc and drum systems. Disc brakes are made up of brake rotors, brake calipers, and brake pads. Drum brakes, however, are made up of brake shoes and brake drums.

What They Do

They generate friction. This resistance, vehicles use to slow their wheels turning and stop their tires.

How Do They Work?

It's a straightforward process that starts with stepping on the brake pedal and activating the brake pistons. They travel the length of a bore in the master brake cylinder, pressurizing brake fluid in the process. This fluid flows through a series of brake hoses and lines, and from there, which part does what depends on brake type. In a drum brake, the fluid forces the shoes and drums to clamp together, while in a disc brake, it fastens the rotors, calipers, and pads together.

How Long They Last

That depends, in part, on the condition of the system, but also on the results of an exhaustive brake inspection. Check the brake pedal, fluid, lines, and hoses, plus the assemblies and parking brake, and if the results call for replacing any of them, do so ASAP.

The Signs They Need Replacing

There are many. They include:

• Dashboard warning lights
• Pulling to the side and/or shuddering when braking
• Weaker brake grip than usual
• A brake pedal that feels too low or too soft
• Taking longer than normal to slow down and stop
• Grinding and other abnormal noises

Before you buy any new brake parts, though, be sure you're getting genuine ones.

Why You Should Buy Genuine OEM

They'll fit your brand and model from the get-go. That's a compatibility guarantee you may not get from aftermarket brakes.

Where Can You Order Replacement Brake Parts Online?

From our auto parts store. Our catalog has a wide selection, and you can browse it by your make, model, and year to easily find what fits. Buy now, and we'll ship and deliver straight to your door, ASAP.