Hit the Brakes!

Putting the Pedal to the Metal

Hit the brakes! Literally. Your vehicle can slow down, stop, and jerk with the essential brake pedal. So how does this life-saving device work? By applying pressure to rotating brake discs and/or brake drums attached to each wheel, your vehicle will come to a stop.

Here’s a closeup look at the two types of brakes, provided to you by RepairPal.com :
Disc Brakes
On vehicles with disc brakes (which is the vast majority), there is a metal disc called a rotor. When the brakes are applied, the brake pads are forced against the brake rotor, which will slow or stop your vehicle.
Drum Brakes
The brake drum fits over the brake shoes. When the brakes are applied, the brake shoes are forced against the inside of the brake drum. This causes the brake drum to stop rotating, which will slow or stop your vehicle.