Efficient brakes are the foundation of safe driving
The brake system is a very important part of our car - when it is not checked on a regular basis and, consequently, it does not work efficiently, it has a negative impact on our safety.
The basic element of the braking system are brake pads. In many cars, they are mounted only on the front because 
drum brakes are common on the rear axle. Cars equipped with a more powerful engine usually have brake discs mounted on all four wheels.
What are the signs of wear on the brake pads?
“You can easily check the lining thickness on the brake pads by yourself after removing the wheels through the inspection holes in the brake calipers. The groove in the pads is used to determine the degree of wear - if it is no longer visible, the pads should be replaced. Remember that the cheapest substitutes can have many disadvantages, such as lower resistance to thermal and mechanical loads, or a mismatch to the shape of the brake calipers. The lining material of such pads does not meet the parameters most often specified by the manufacturer, which affects the service life of the pads, but what is worse, it extends the braking distance. " - Marek Godzieszka, Technical Director of Auto-Boss.
When replacing the pads, do not forget to clean and lubricate the brake caliper guides, because the efficiency of the brake system also depends on it and the condition of the discs - those with numerous, deep grooves and a thickness smaller than indicated by the manufacturer should be replaced. If the brake discs have clear discoloration on their surface - the so-called overheating burns - check for runout. Discs with excessive axial runout should also be replaced with new ones because the runout significantly extends the braking distance.
Brake drums, which in new cars are mounted on the rear axles, are more durable than discs. Most drum brakes are equipped with an automatic mechanism responsible for bringing the jaws closer to the drum. However, there are also those with manual adjustment - let's check what type is in our car. When we notice that the cylinders for spreading the jaws in the drums are leaking, we should replace them as soon as possible. It is also worth taking care of bleeding the brake system - this type of activity is best entrusted to a workshop. From time to time, we should also check whether the brake fluid should not be changed - the brake fluid is highly hygroscopic, absorbs moisture and degrades, which leads to the weakening of the brakes.
“Unfortunately, drivers often ignore the handbrake - they usually find out about its inefficient operation at the technical inspection. An efficient brake means not only safety but also a comfortable ride - let's check the condition of the cable, because it usually seizes. " - adds Marek Godzieszka, Technical Director of Auto-Boss.
We should check the braking system regularly - in the event of any faults, react immediately - our safety and that of other road users depends on it.
