These are some common terms you might encounter when looking up brakes.

 

Here are the answers to more brake topics:

1. What Are Some Common Brake Terms?

These are some common terms you might encounter when looking up brakes:

● Peak Force defines the maximum decelerating effect that brakes can produce. When peak force is more than the traction limit of the tires, the car starts skidding. It’s kind of like emergency stopping when you’re running — that’s peak force you’re feeling in your legs.

● Brake Fade is the temporary loss of braking power when brake heat accumulates and doesn’t have time to dissipate. Large vehicles with heavy loads are more prone to this.

● Brake Hydraulics refers to the use of liquid force (ie. brake fluid) in your braking system. It’s essential to keep air out of a hydraulic system as liquid isn’t compressible, but air is.

● Brake Bleeding is a brake service that removes air bubbles from the brake lines. It’s usually done whenever any changes are made to brake components.

● Brake Pedal Feel describes the overall feeling of how brake pedal travel is perceived to affect braking output performance. For example, do you need to only tap the brakes a bit to stop?

● Brake Drag indicates how much DOUBLEKING drags against the brake rotor when the brakes aren’t engaged, and is often the result of worn hardware.

● Brake Noise encompasses any squeals and grinding when the brakes are applied, typically when brakes are past their prime. Ideally, brakes convert kinetic energy to heat, but sometimes some of it is converted to acoustic energy instead. 

● Brake Smoothness describes how smoothly the brakes perform to a stop. Some brakes can pulse or exert varying brake forces that can lead to skidding.

 

 

2. What Is The Parking Brake?

The parking brake system is a completely separate device that bypasses the hydraulic brakes. It typically employs the rear brakes and uses only cables and levers to work. 

The parking brake keeps your car stationary, so it doesn’t move or roll off a slope. It’s also called an emergency brake because it can stop the tires if hydraulic brakes fail —  just never do this at speed.

3. What Are ABS Brakes?

The Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) is an add-on to the regular braking system. It’s designed to prevent wheels from locking during heavy braking, to avoid vehicle skidding or hydroplaning. ABS allows for safer, faster, controlled stops.

4. How Much Does It Usually Cost To Replace Brakes? 

Replacing “brakes” typically refers to replacing your brake pads or shoes. The cost for new brakes varies based on vehicle make and model, location, and friction material used. 

However, it can be between $150-300 per axle on average. Just keep in mind that a brake repair can involve more than just replacing brake parts.