Brake Parts and How They Work Together to Stop a Vehicle

Brakes are one of the most crucial safety components in any vehicle, ensuring effective stopping power and control. Understanding how brakes work can help you maintain optimal performance and safety on the road. At Bendix, we offer premium braking solutions, from disc brake rotors and brake pads to brake fluid and complete upgrade kits, ensuring you get the most out of your braking system.

A key component of the braking system, the disc rotor provides the surface against which the brake pads press to generate the friction required to slow down or stop your vehicle. Over time, wear and tear can reduce braking efficiency, making high-quality replacement rotors essential for maintaining performance.

For superior braking response, choose Bendix Disc Brake Rotors, engineered for durability, heat dissipation, and consistent stopping power. Upgrade to Bendix rotors today and experience the difference in braking performance.

The brake caliper is activated by hydraulic pressure from the brake pedal and master cylinder. It houses the brake pads, which clamp onto the rotor to create friction and bring your vehicle to a halt.

Comprising multiple precision-engineered components, the caliper assembly includes the caliper body, mounting bracket, slide pins, locking bolts, dust boots, brake mounting clips, brake pads, and shims, as well as the brake piston with dust boot and seal. All of these parts work together to ensure smooth and effective braking action.

For optimal performance, pair your calipers with Bendix Brake Pads—designed for maximum stopping power, reduced brake fade, and superior wear resistance.

When the brake pedal is pressed, hydraulic brake fluid is forced through a banjo fitting, pushing the caliper piston forward. This movement causes the inner brake pad to make contact with the disc rotor. As pressure builds, the caliper moves along the slide pins, pulling the outer brake pad against the opposite side of the rotor.

Using high-performance Bendix Brake Fluid ensures your braking system operates at peak efficiency by maintaining optimal hydraulic pressure and preventing brake fade, even under extreme conditions.

Pressing the brake pedal initiates a chain reaction: the master cylinder sends high-pressure brake fluid to the caliper, activating the piston, which in turn pushes the brake pads against the disc rotor. The resulting friction slows down and eventually stops the vehicle.

From a different perspective, the braking process can be visualised as follows: the brake fluid pushes the piston, which forces the inner brake pad against the rotor. Once this happens, the caliper moves along the slides, pulling the outer brake pad toward the rotor’s opposite side. The result is uniform friction that efficiently slows down the vehicle.

Upgrade your braking system today with Bendix Brake products—trusted by professionals and drivers who demand the best in braking performance.

Want to learn more about how your brake system works? Visit our interactive brake system guide where you can explore the many individual components responsible for stopping your car.