What is the braking principle of a sedan?
3 Answers
The braking principle of a car is as follows: 1. Principle one: The general working principle of the braking system is to use the mutual friction between the non-rotating components connected to the body or frame and the rotating components connected to the wheels or drive shaft to prevent the rotation or tendency of rotation of the wheels. 2. Principle two: When the braking system is not in operation, there is a gap between the shoe and drum, allowing the wheels and brake drum to rotate freely. 3. Principle three: During braking, to decelerate the car, stepping on the brake pedal pushes the master cylinder piston through the push rod, causing the master cylinder fluid to flow into the wheel cylinder under a certain pressure. This action pushes the two wheel cylinder pistons to rotate the brake shoes around the support pins, causing their upper ends to separate and press the friction linings against the inner surface of the brake drum.
As an auto mechanic, I frequently deal with brake issues. The braking principle of a car is essentially about slowing down through friction: when you press the brake pedal, it pushes the brake fluid in the master cylinder, and the hydraulic pressure is transmitted through the tubes to the calipers or drum brakes at each wheel. Then, the brake pads clamp onto the brake disc or press against the brake drum, generating significant friction to slow the wheels down. This system relies on hydraulic pressure to transmit force, so the condition of the brake fluid is crucial; if the fluid is old or contains air bubbles, the brakes may feel spongy. I also recommend regularly checking the thickness of the brake pads and the wear on disc brakes, as thin pads can increase braking distance and make skidding more likely on slippery roads. Don’t overlook the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), which rapidly adjusts pressure during emergency braking to prevent wheel lock-up—this is a key safety feature. Remember to have a professional inspection at least every six months to ensure you don’t face the risk of brake failure on the road.
I've been driving for over a decade and am very familiar with braking principles. When pressing the brake pedal, you can feel a counterforce—that's the hydraulic system at work: the pedal pushes the master cylinder, compressing brake fluid to transmit pressure to the wheel's braking mechanism. For example, disc brakes use calipers to clamp the rotor for friction, while drum brakes rely on shoes pressing against the inner drum surface. The friction-generated force slows the car down. I always pay attention to brake noises—squealing often means the pads are worn out and need replacement. On rainy days when roads are slippery, you might feel the pedal vibrate when ABS activates, but don't panic—it's preventing wheel lockup and loss of control. Stopping distance depends on tires and road conditions. Older cars especially require frequent checks of brake fluid levels—low fluid means weaker braking. Understanding these details makes me drive with more confidence and helps avoid accidents during sudden stops.
