It goes without saying that your brakes are one of your vehicle’s most important systems when it comes to any type of driving. Over time, different components of your brakes will wear down, creating a potentially dangerous situation if not addressed. If you’re like most drivers, it can be hard to figure out when it’s time to change your brakes. Here is some information that point Hyundai drivers in the right direction.
Before we get into understanding the state of health of your brakes, it’s important to get down the basics of how they work. When you press on the brake pedal of an automobile, that is a signal to the vehicle to start amplifying your braking action. This activates a hydraulic system. Fluids are distributed by a master cylinder and go to other cylinders that are attached to the wheels of your automobile. When those fluids enter the cylinder, either disc or drum brakes apply friction, which slows down the vehicle by absorbing the kinetic energy of all that speed.
Of course, that energy has to go somewhere, so it is converted to heat. This is one of the reasons why heat management is critical to your brakes operating smoothly.
The drum system was the earlier braking system widely applied to most vehicles in the 20th century. It is still in use today. As the name implies, a drum brake system is a hollow container that is attached to wheels. Inside a drum are “shoes” that, when the brake is applied, push against the drum and stop the wheel from moving.
In the 1980s, new technology was developed known as the disc brake. It retained the circular shape of the drum but flattened to a disc shape instead. The disc portion, which is also known as the “rotor,” works with different mechanisms to apply braking force. Rather than apply friction inside a hollow drum shape, a calliper or “pincer” clamps down on the rotor to stop it from moving.
The disc system has proven more effective and efficient. Many vehicles today use a combination of disc brakes for the front wheels, with drum brakes for the rear. Some vehicles, however, employ disc brakes for all four wheels.
With so many moving parts to brakes and the frequent stopping and starting that is part of city driving, there are different ways that brakes may need servicing. If you have a new automobile, you may have indicators present that tell you when your brake pads or brake fluid need attention. If you don’t have this kind of early warning system, you should keep an eye out for these signs:
Your brake pedal should always put up a certain amount of resistance unless you put all your strength into it. If you push down and it easily sinks, there could be a problem with the hydraulics and/or brake fluid.
Depressing the brake should always result in smooth deceleration, even when you brake suddenly. If you find, however, that depressing the brake causes vibrations or shaking either in the brake pedal, or the entire car itself as it slows down, this is a big sign that your brakes need professional attention.
While your vehicle’s engine makes noise, and your tires may occasionally squeal on a surface if you accelerate suddenly, your brakes are meant to operate silently. If your Hyundai and brakes make a noise when the brake is applied, the question of “when to change brake pads,” might be now.
Last, but not least, it’s one of the signs you may need new brake pads or rotors if you are noticing a drop in performance with your brakes. Pay attention to their responsiveness. If you find your braking habits changing to compensate for poor braking, it’s time for a change.
Just remember that your brakes will last longer and work better with regular maintenance. You should replenish brake fluids every two years or 40,000 km, whichever comes first. Have your brake pads checked and replaced every 50,0000 km. Keep in mind that smooth, rather than abrupt stopping will lengthen the lifespan of your brakes.
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