Brakes

Brakes

Through our partnership with EBC and Brembo, we offer one of the most comprehensive brake ranges on the market.

Covering nearly 100,000 vehicle combinations, we supply premium-quality brakes from two of the world’s leading manufacturers. Whether you're looking for reliable standard brakes or high-performance solutions for track use, we have the products to meet your needs – with uncompromising performance and quality.

How does a car’s braking system work?

In Sweden, the law requires every vehicle to be equipped with two independent braking systems: one hydraulic (service brake) and one mechanical (parking brake). The hydraulic system is activated when you press the brake pedal, slowing the vehicle down. The mechanical system, commonly known as the handbrake or parking brake, prevents the car from rolling when parked.

In modern cars, the traditional handbrake lever is often replaced by an electronic parking brake, activated via a button.

Brakes are one of the most critical safety systems in a car. If you experience unusual noises - reduced braking power, or changes in how your brakes feel - it’s essential to inspect them immediately.

Common brake issues:

• Vibration or pulling to one side when braking: This may be due to warped brake discs or uneven braking force.

• Vehicle rolls despite the handbrake being engaged: This could be due to a loose parking brake cable or worn brake shoes.

• Squealing brakes: May occur from light, prolonged braking, which causes a glaze to form on the pads. To prevent this, brake firmly and briefly rather than gently over long distances.

• ABS warning light on: Often caused by issues with the wheel speed sensors, wiring, or connectors.

Brake maintenance tips:

Keeping your brakes in good condition is vital for both safety and performance. Here are a few things to monitor:

• Brake pads: If there's less than 3 mm of material left, it's time to replace them.

• Brake discs: Inspect for grooves, scoring, or uneven wear. If present, a replacement may be necessary.

• Brake fluid: Ensure levels are correct and there are no leaks in the system.

• Parking brake: Park on a slope with the vehicle in neutral and engage the parking brake. If the car rolls or creeps, it may be time to adjust or service it. Alternatively, engage the parking brake and try moving forward slowly, if the car holds, the brake is functioning properly.

Brake pedal test:

• With the engine off, press the brake pedal. It should feel firm and stop halfway down.

• If the pedal sinks slowly, there could be a leak in the system.

• If the pedal feels spongy, air may be trapped in the brake lines and bleeding the brakes may be required.

• If the pedal travels too far, the brake pads might be worn or the system needs adjustment.

Main components of the brake system:

• Brake discs (rotors): The surface the brake pads clamp onto to generate friction and slow the car down.

• Brake pads: Friction materials housed in the caliper that press against the discs to slow the wheels.

• Brake calipers: The component that uses hydraulic pressure to squeeze the pads against the discs.

• Drum brakes: Common in older cars and some EVs, these use shoes inside a drum to generate friction.

• Brake shoes: Located inside the drum, they press outward against the drum wall to slow the vehicle.

• Brake lines and hoses: Carry hydraulic fluid from the master cylinder to the calipers or drums.

• Parking brake cable: Connects to the handbrake and applies mechanical pressure to the rear brakes.

• Wheel cylinder: Used in drum brakes to push the shoes outward against the drum.

• Master cylinder: Converts the mechanical pressure from the brake pedal into hydraulic force.

• Brake booster (servo): Uses engine vacuum to assist braking, making it easier to press the pedal.

• ABS sensor: Measures individual wheel speeds and works with the ABS system to prevent wheel lockup during braking.