There’s a lot more to the braking system than just brake pads; it’s vital that you get the entire system checked and maintained regularly to ensure your family travels safely.

We recommend you check and service brake systems every six months to keep them in good working order.

Maintenance and repair work on your brakes should always be carried out by a professional.

Common warning signs:

Here are (some) of the signs that your car’s braking system requires attention:

spongy brake pedal

grinding sound when you press the brake pedal

Squealing brakes

car pulling to one side when you brake

brake warning light illuminating

brake pedal being hard to press

Braking System Types 

Most cars use disc and drum brake assemblies in their brake systems. These days cars are fitted with disc brakes on all four wheels; however, some cars (such as light commercial models) still use a drum brake assembly on the rear wheels.

As safety performance awareness increases, many car manufacturers are fitting anti-lock brakes (ABS) – a computer-controlled system – as an added braking system component to prevent wheel lockup and skidding. ABS usually work in conjunction with other vehicle systems such as stability control.

Braking system components

There are several parts to a car’s brake system including brake pedal, brake booster, master cylinder, brake calliper, wheel cylinder assembly, brake pads and shoes, drums, discs, brake-fluid lines and brake fluid, emergency brake or hand brake and, depending on vehicle make and model, electronic modules and ABS control unit.

All these need careful and regular maintenance to ensure your braking system is functioning perfectly.