How Brakes Work
Brake Rotors
Each wheel has a rotor fastened to it where it can interact with the brake pads to slow your Honda. As they do their job, rotors narrow to the Honda recommended wear limit and require replacement. Replacement brake pads might not work well with worn rotors. We suggest rotor replacement with new brake pads.
Brake Pads and Wear Sensors
Brake pads are the other half of a friction-creating pair with the rotors. Like the rotors, they wear out. Some brake pads have a device that makes a screeching noise when they are nearly used up. If you hear any noise at all when you brake, see us immediately. A yearly brake inspection is your best check on the need for brake part replacement.
Brake Calipers
When the brake fluid is under pressure from the master cylinder, internal caliper pistons force the brake pads to the rotors, creating friction to brake the vehicle. The calipers are constantly showered with dirt from the road and drenched with water. These harsh conditions cause rust and contamination in the caliper’s working parts. We remedy this situation during a brake job.
Master Cylinder
The master cylinder is connected to the brake pedal; it pressures the brake fluid when activated. Since brake fluid is in a closed vessel, equal pressure is applied to the caliper pistons. The pistons then force the pads against the rotors. The master cylinder internals are enclosed with seals that develop leaks over time. Our technician will closely inspect this important part of your brake system.
Brake Lines
Brake lines move brake fluid from the master cylinder to the caliper pistons. The brake lines are made of metal up to the wheel area and are susceptible to corrosion. The last few feet of the brake lines are rubber and can dry rot with age. When your Odyssey is on the rack for any service, we will inspect these critical parts to detect leaks.
Brake Fluid
Brake fluid passes pressure from the master cylinder to the brake calipers. Brake fluid takes in much of the heat from braking; it has a high boiling point when new. Over time it accumulates water, lowering its boiling threshold. Water-containing brake fluid facilitates rust in the internal brake parts. We advise a two-year service interval to keep your brake components as new.
Brake Inspections
We recommend brake inspections at alternate engine oil changes or yearly. Our technician scrutinizes the entire brake system during brake inspections to find problems before they cause a safety hazard.
We take brake inspections and repairs seriously for your safety. Honda deems brake components to be wear items, so the factory warranty will not pay for brake jobs. Call us or visit our website to see the cost difference between our shop and the Honda dealer for brake repair or any maintenance you require.
