Brake System Operation

Vehicle brake system operation begins with the driver and the application of the brake pedal. Brakes slow and stop a vehicle by transforming vehicle motion into heat energy. The amount of heat produced is proportional to the vehicle speed and driver foot pressure on the brake pedal. Fast vehicle speeds and quick stops produce more heat. The brake system is comprised of many sub-systems. Stopping a vehicle requires that all brake sub-systems work together. The first system that is activated during a stop is the Apply system.