Disc/Drum Brake Actuation (Base Brake System)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2007 Mercury Mariner and 2007 Ford Escape. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The brake pedal is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid is pushed through the double-walled steel lines and flexible hoses to the rear wheel cylinders and the front disc brake calipers. The brake fluid enters the rear wheel cylinders, forcing the rear wheel cylinder pistons outward against the brake shoes and linings. The brake shoes and linings press against the braking surfaces of the brake drums. The front disc brake caliper pistons are forced outward against the brake pads and linings, and contact the braking surfaces of the front brake disc. When the brake pedal is released, the pressure is relieved, returning the front disc brake caliper pistons and rear wheel cylinder pistons and the brake shoes, brake pads and linings to the unapplied position.