Brakes

Your GM vehicle has one of two brake systems: disc brakes or drum brakes. Both have master brake cylinders, brake piston(s), brake hoses, and brake lines. When you press the brake pedal, the pistons pressurize the fluid and the master cylinder sends it through the lines and hoses.

The Different Brake Systems

Drum brakes use brake shoes and brake drums. The brake fluid forces the shoe and the drum to fasten together and create the friction required to slow your wheels.

A disc brake system is more involved. It has brake calipers, brake pads, and brake rotors. The fluid causes the calipers to close the pads down onto the rotors to generate that resistance.

In time, though, any brake system will begin to wear out. Once that happens, you'll want to conduct an inspection as soon as possible to establish which part needs replacing.

How to Recognize Failing Brakes

Signs of trouble include:

• A vibrating or bouncing brake pedal
• Your GM vehicle pulls to one side when you're braking
• Your brake pedal feels soft or squishy
• You hear strange noises when you brake
• The dashboard warning light comes on

Shop For Genuine GM Brake Parts Online

If any brake components do need replacing, you'll want to use the best ones for your car, truck, SUV, or van. Our online auto parts department is packed with the genuine OEM brake parts that are guaranteed to fit your model. Buy now to save both time and money!