This system mounts a metal rotor directly to the wheel hub, straddled by a hydraulic caliper holding two brake pads. When hydraulic pressure is applied, the caliper pistons clamp the pads against the spinning rotor, converting kinetic energy into heat to stop the vehicle. They offer superior cooling and water-shedding capabilities compared to older drum designs, making them the standard for front-wheel and high-performance applications.
We need to do a full disc brake service on the front axle because those rotors are warped beyond the minimum thickness.
Do not mix it up with
- Brake shoe: Brake shoes are the curved friction elements used inside drum brakes, while disc brakes use flat brake pads.
Related terms
Caliper
The hydraulic clamp in a disc brake system that squeezes the brake pads against the rotor.
Brake assembly
A complete, pre-assembled unit containing the components needed to replace a vehicle's braking mechanism.
Brake fade
The loss of stopping power caused by excessive heat buildup in the braking system.