Checking the brake system

A brake system check should be performed at the indicated intervals, or whenever a defect in the brake system is suspected.

• a) Vehicle pulls to one side when braking.
• b) When braking, extraneous noises appear.
• c) The brake pedal travel is excessive.
• d) Requires constant topping up of brake fluid.

Checking the condition of the brake disc

Raise the front of the car and secure it on stands. For better access to brake calipers. remove the wheels. Check through the inspection window on the caliper that the material thickness of each of the pads is no less than the recommended minimum thickness given in the specification. Remove the caliper if necessary.

If only one pad is worn out, all four pads must be replaced.

Measure the thickness of the brake discs with a micrometer. If the disc is thinner than the required minimum thickness or is in poor condition, the disc must be replaced.

Check the condition of the brake hoses near the calipers where they are subjected to the most movement.

Rear brakes

Raise the front of the car and secure it on stands. For better access, remove the wheels. To check the condition of the rear brake pads without removing the brake drums, use a lever to remove the rubber plugs from the brake shields, and use a flashlight and a mirror to inspect the thickness of the rear brake pad linings.

For a comprehensive inspection, remove the brake drums. With the brake drum removed, check the brake shoes, return and support springs for proper shoe installation, and check the brake cylinders for brake fluid leaks. Check the friction surface of the brake drums for wear.