Hydraulic Brake Actuation

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

CAUTION: Blistering or swelling of rubber brake components may indicate contamination of the brake fluid by a petroleum-based substance. New rubber components must be installed in the hydraulic system if contaminated and the entire hydraulic brake system must be flushed with clean brake fluid to prevent recontamination.

The hydraulic brake actuation system consists of the following components:

Brake master cylinder
Brake fluid reservoir
Brake pedal and bracket assembly
Brake tubes and hoses
Hydraulic control unit (HCU)

Hydraulic Brake Actuation - The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid is forced from the master cylinder through the steel tubing and flexible hoses to the front disc brake calipers and the rear disc brake calipers. The front disc brake caliper pistons are forced outward against the brake pads, which contact the braking surface of the brake discs. The brake fluid calipers are pressurized by the master cylinder, forcing the disc brake caliper pistons outward against the brake pads. The brake pads press against the braking surface on the brake discs. When the brake pedal is released, the pressure is relieved, returning the brake caliper pistons and the brake pads to the at-rest position.

The dual brake system is split front and rear with the front wheel brakes comprising one circuit and the rear wheel brakes the other circuit.