Brakes are an essential part of your car's safety equipment and should not be neglected. Worn or malfunctioning brakes can mean poor stopping performance, especially in a panic situation. Checking and repairing brakes is something that most service centers will do but one that the average home mechanic can easily accomplish. It is a good idea for every driver to have a general understanding of the braking system in their car, though.

A modern car's braking system is composed of several parts. The hydraulic system transfers your push of the pedal to each wheel and helps to lessen the amount of driver effort needed to stop the car. The brakes themselves, whether disc or drum, apply the physical contact that actually stops each wheel. Most new cars will also have an electronic anti-lock system that will keep the wheels from locking up under heavy braking.

A light on the instrument panel that will indicate a problem with the braking system, and is most often be triggered by low brake fluid, which in turn can mean either that brake fluid has leaked or that brakes are wearing thin. Any unusual noise or vibration when braking can also mean that brakes need to be serviced. Brake pads will also have a wear indicator that will begin to make a high pitched screech when brakes wear thin. Squealing does not always indicate problems, as the vibration of brakes and even some brake pad materials can cause it under normal conditions.

You need not wait for these signs to check your brakes, however. Brake fluid can be easily checked by noting the relation of the fluid level to the fill line on the brake fluid reservoir. As with oil or other fluids, the need to add a little is not a sign of disaster. You should be concerned if the level is very low or if you need to add fluid often.

Brake pads can be examined by removing the wheel and checking the thickness of the brake pads. Most pads will start life with more that 3/8" of thickness. You will need to investigate your particular model to know when to replace them. Brake pads can be replaced at home for a fraction of the cost of having them professionally installed

The disc rotors and drums should be smooth. Any grooves can be a sign that the brake pads have worn down to the metal rivets that should not normally contact the surface. Be careful when inspecting discs and drums, they may be hot. Many parts stores will even "turn" or smooth out the surface of the discs or drums for a minimal fee.

Cars with an antilock system will have another light that indicates specific problems with the antilock system. Antilock issues should be diagnosed by a qualified mechanic and are not easily serviced by a home mechanic.

Your car's brakes, like its tires, are an item that will eventually wear out. Unlike tires, brakes are something that you can do at home if you are so inclined. A good repair manual will be a big help and your local parts store can probably give you good advice.

Learn more about this author, Eric Wolf.
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