There are two types of automotive braking systems these days. The first is a drum brake system, and the second is a disc brake system. They both feature master brake cylinders, brake pistons, brake lines, and brake hoses. When you press the sole of your foot against the brake pedal inside your cabin, the master brake cylinder directs hydraulic brake fluid through the hoses and lines to the pistons. What happens next varies by the type of brake system installed in your vehicle.

The Two Systems at Work

With a drum brake system, the fluid pressure forces a brake shoe to fasten to a brake drum to produce the resistance needed to slow your tires. A disc brake system involves more parts. When the pressure builds, it causes the brake calipers to clamp brake pads onto the brake rotors in order to generate that friction.

How to Recognize Faulty Brakes

Over time, though, your brakes will eventually start to suffer from the wear and tear of everyday use. Signs of failure include:

Your dash warning light comes on
Your BMW car or SAV shudders when you brake
You hear strange noises coming from the brakes
Your brake pedal feels unusually soft or squishy
It takes more time and distance to come to a complete stop

Save When You Buy Genuine BMW OE Brake Components From Best BMW Parts

When you do need to replace a bad brake part, choose a new one made by your manufacturer. They are, after all, the only brake parts that are designed specifically for your model. That ensures a guaranteed compatibility you can trust. Find everything you need for the job in our online auto parts catalog. Buy now and we'll get your order shipped right out!