Hydraulic Brake System Failure Analysis
Hydraulic brakes are the primary braking system for vehicles, including motorcycles, trucks, and cars. Because of the components used in the system come into contact with or are affected by heat, dirt, and humidity, degradation or failure of those components may lead to reduced braking performance and system failure.
The failure of the hydraulic brake system is mainly manifested in four aspects：
1. Loss of fluid pressure: The maximum braking force generated by the hydraulic brake can normally only be obtained after sufficient hydraulic pressure is applied to the brakes. When the hydraulic pressure is insufficient, the expected braking force cannot be achieved, and the vehicle can suddenly accelerate when the brakes are applied. This usually happens when the master cylinder is leaking oil or the brake line or oil seal is damaged.
2. Brake does not release: When the brake does not release, the brake pads will remain in contact with the brake disk, dragging the disk and reducing the braking performance. This kind of failure is caused by the fault of the brake master cylinder valve, the rust of the push rod during the long time parking, or the leakage of the oil seal in the brake caliper.
3. Brake drag: After the brakes are applied and released, the brake pads will remain to a certain extent, which will cause the brakes to heat up and drag the wheels. There may be a problem with the brake pads or the brake caliper cylinder.
4. Air entering the system: When the brake is not sensitive, the brake pedal is relatively soft and the braking force is relatively weak, these phenomena are caused by air entering the brake fluid. Therefore, careful checking is needed to find out the air in the system, whether it is from the return of the brake or from the leakage of the rubber hose.
In order to troubleshoot the hydraulic brake system, the fault can be accurately located and the cause of the failure can be identified through accurate diagnosis of the system. Firstly, for mechanical parts: check whether the brake has enough oil, whether the vibration block is loose and moving, and whether the brake line is leaking oil. Secondly, pay attention to the parts condition of the master cylinder and the brake caliper. Pay attention to whether the seals of the brake caliper and the master cylinder are good, whether the brake pedal is moving, and whether the return spring is flexible. For the electronic parts, the current of the brake system must be tested.
In addition to regular testing and maintenance, driving habits also play an important role in the safe operation of the hydraulic brake system. In particular, heavy braking should be avoided, and the brake system should be allowed to cool off after a long downhill drive.
In conclusion, if the hydraulic brake system fails, it is necessary to accurately identify the cause of the failure and take corresponding measures in time. In order to ensure safe driving at night, regular inspections and maintenance should be done. At the same time, the brake needs to be adjusted and the failure parts need to be replaced in time.
Finally, a driver should always obey the traffic rules and be careful when braking to avoid hydraulic brake system failure.
