Brakes and Traction Control: Description and Operation

Brake System
The brake system consists of the following components:
^ Vacuum-assisted power brake booster
^ Front-to-rear split hydraulic system
^ Front disc brake system
^ Rear disc brakes with an integral parking brake, using a single piston brake caliper and disc system
^ Four wheel ABS

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 pushed through the doubled-walled steel tubes and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. The brake fluid enters the disc brake calipers, forcing the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the brake disc friction surface, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is relieved, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the unapplied position.

For information on the following components:
^ ABS and hydraulic control unit (HCU), refer to Antilock Brakes / Traction Control Systems.
^ Brake calipers, refer to Disc Brake System.
^ Master cylinder and fluid reservoir, refer to Hydraulic System, Brakes.
^ Vacuum assisted power brake booster, refer to Power Brake Assist.