Toyota Fortuner in the Philippines is a vehicle preferred by numerous drivers due to the convenience and comfort it provides. Owning a car comes with countless efforts for maintenance as time passes by, such as going to insurance companies and changing certain parts of the vehicle to make sure they aren’t due for a replacement. One of the critical parts a car has that needs to be checked constantly are the brakes. If you’re not fully aware yet, here is the important information about car brakes.
Types and Parts of Brakes
Before we proceed to finding out how to know when it’s time to change the brakes on your vehicle, it’s best to know about the types and parts.
Types of brake systems:
There are two common types of brake systems for common private vehicles.
Drum brakes – The friction system of drum brakes use a set of pads that apply pressure on a brake drum
Disc brakes – The friction system uses a wheel brake in order to slow down the spin of the wheels of the vehicles. The brake pads are then pressed against the brakes rotors including calipers
Parts of the brakes:
Some of the components of the common vehicle system are listed below.
Pads – Simply put, it is what you literally step on when you ‘step on the brakes’. Brake pads are made out of metal, ceramic, and other hard-wearing composite ingredients.
Drum – These are spinning,drum-shaped sections that are used in the drum brakes.
Shoes – No, not the type you wear on your feet. Brake shoes presses the lining against the inside of the drum to provide the braking effort.
Lining – Brake linings are heat-proof, soft, and strong. They are attached to the brake shoe to increase the friction.
Indicator – A brake wear indicator warns the user of the vehicle that the brake pad needs replacement.
Causes of Problems with Brakes
There are two main reasons why brakes break. First is exposure to water due to flood or improper car washing which may result the rotors to rust. Another is not pressing on the brakes when driving through humps or high-leveled paths. These two may cause the internal parts of the brake to become problematic.
Major signs of brake problems
Sounds – The initial indication of brake issues is a shockingly loud sound when the driver steps on the If this is the case, the rotors should be turned or replaced because the two pieces of the metal are clashing wrongly together.
Vibrating – If the brake pedal vibrates, it may mean that the vehicle is out of alignment. Anti-lock brakes may need to be installed.
Redirection – Once the vehicle moves to a side which is unintended, it is a major sign there is a problem. Either brake adjustment is needed, or the fluid must be drained and
Unresponsiveness – Unresponsiveness or minimal effect whenever the pedals are stepped on indicate that there is an air or brake fluid leak in the braking system of the car.
Do any of these indicators sound familiar? Or worse, are you currently experiencing them? If so, it’s time to visit your trusted car repair shop. If the vehicle is still covered by insurance you may also want to inform your insurance company. It is absolutely vital for the brakes of the vehicle to be in good condition because otherwise it can lead to disasters!
