Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Hydraulic System: Description and Operation

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid is pushed from the master cylinder through the metal tubing and flexible hoses to the rear disc brake calipers and the front disc brake calipers. The brake fluid enters the rear disc brake calipers, forcing the rear disc brake caliper pistons outward against the brake pads. The brake pads press against the braking surface on the brake rotors. The front disc brake caliper pistons are forced outward against the brake pads, and contact the braking surface of the front disc brake hub and rotors. When the brake pedal is released, the pressure is relieved, returning the brake caliper pistons and the brake shoes and linings to the unapplied position.

The dual brake system is split front and rear with the front wheel brakes comprising one circuit and the rear wheel brakes, the other circuit.

The ability of a brake system to stop the vehicle is dependent on the available traction.