Brake Systems Explained : What Actually Needs to Be Done ( Part 4)
About this episode
Exploring the critical aspects of brake systems, this episode emphasizes the importance of regular maintenance to prevent costly repairs. Host Niall Motormouth Jenkins shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to extend the life of your vehicle's brakes, including the necessity of biannual inspections and proper driving habits. The episode also features a real-world cost analysis for brake repairs, highlighting the financial benefits of preventative maintenance. With a focus on saving money and maintaining vehicle integrity, listeners gain valuable insights into automotive care.
Brakes Aren't a guessing game-and they're not something you "wait and see" on either.
In Part 4 our Brake System series, we break down what actually needs to be done when servicing brakes, what's critical for safety, and what often gets skipped or misunderstood.
This episode is about education not upselling. We explain how modern brake systems work, what components matter most, and why cutting corners can cost you far more down the road.
whether you're hearing a noise, feeling a vibration, or just want to understand what you're paying for, this episode gives you the clarity every driver deserves.
Coming up next in Part 5: Real- world brake repair costs from a real shop-no guesses, no fluff, just the truth.
More episodes and .... Project details & links are available at Car Connection Business Network.com (ccbusnet.com) you'll find everything on our homepage if you'd like to follow the build/repairs & connect with our program partners and sponsors, click on their logo to connect please let them know we sent you, Tnx a bunch! Grab some Motormouth gear in our online store, know this you're supporting someone who needs help to break an addiction. Thank You Friends So Much, Peace Patience Kindness, Happy Healthy Motoring, NMJ
horsepower
"...a little humor, a little know-how, and a whole lot of horsepower. Here, it's not just about fixing cars..."
Horsepower tells you how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go and the better it can perform.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the output of engines. It indicates how much work an engine can perform over time, influencing a vehicle's acceleration and overall performance.
Toyota Fj
"...to be part of the 600,000 kilometer club. And our 07 Toyota FJ Cruiser is well on its way to the 400k club..."
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is a tough SUV designed for off-road driving. It has a unique look and is built to handle rough terrain, making it a favorite for adventure seekers.
The Toyota FJ Cruiser is an off-road SUV known for its rugged design and capability. It was produced from 2006 to 2014 and is popular among off-road enthusiasts for its durability and distinctive retro styling.
Honda Civic DX
"Our 99 Honda Civic DX two door hatchback five speed with air blowing as cold as"
The Honda Civic DX is a version of the Honda Civic, which is a small, reliable car. The 1999 model is known for being good on gas and lasting a long time, making it a popular choice.
The Honda Civic DX is a trim level of the Honda Civic, a compact car known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. The 1999 model is part of the sixth generation of Civics, which are well-regarded for their performance and practicality.
four-wheel disc brake system
"...when the rear brakes on your four-wheel disc brake system is completely finished because of neglect..."
A four-wheel disc brake system means that all four wheels of a car have disc brakes, which help the car stop more effectively. It's a common setup in newer cars because it works better than older types of brakes.
A four-wheel disc brake system uses disc brakes on all four wheels of a vehicle, providing better stopping power and heat dissipation compared to drum brakes. This system is common in modern vehicles, especially performance-oriented ones.
preventative maintenance
"...not understanding the rule of thumb when it comes to preventative maintenance and having regular brake inspections..."
Preventative maintenance means taking care of your car regularly to avoid bigger problems later. This includes things like checking the brakes and changing the oil on time.
Preventative maintenance refers to regular servicing and inspections performed on a vehicle to prevent potential issues and extend its lifespan. This includes tasks like oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations.
brake inspections
"...having regular brake inspections and for you folks because I know y'all drive so fast..."
Brake inspections are checks done on your car's brakes to make sure they are working well and safe to use. It's important to do these regularly to avoid accidents.
Brake inspections are routine checks performed on a vehicle's braking system to ensure it is functioning properly and safely. This includes examining brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels.
brake systems
"...part four, brake systems and what needs to be done, what needs to be done to keep money in your pocket. The final episode is going to be brake systems real world repair costs..."
Brake systems help cars stop when you press the pedal. They have different parts that wear out over time, so it's important to take care of them to avoid expensive repairs.
Brake systems are crucial components of a vehicle that allow it to slow down or stop safely. They typically include parts like brake pads, rotors, and calipers, and require regular maintenance to function effectively and avoid costly repairs.
repair costs
"...The final episode is going to be brake systems real world repair costs so my good friend owns a massive shop here in my hometown..."
Repair costs are how much money you have to spend to fix a car when something goes wrong. Different repairs can cost different amounts depending on the problem and where you go to get it fixed.
Repair costs refer to the expenses associated with fixing a vehicle's mechanical issues. These costs can vary widely based on the type of repair, the vehicle make and model, and labor rates in the area.
wholesale parts
"...we were able to find the parts wholesale and the clients paid for their parts..."
Wholesale parts are car parts bought in large quantities at a cheaper price. This helps save money when fixing cars.
Wholesale parts refer to automotive components purchased in bulk at a lower price, typically for resale or repair purposes. This can help reduce costs for repairs or restorations.
Dodge Ram 2500
"the Dodge Ram 2500 series four-wheel drive hemi hopefully it doesn't have the hemi tick..."
The Dodge Ram 2500 is a strong pickup truck that can carry heavy loads and is often used for work. It's part of the Ram series of trucks.
The Dodge Ram 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing capacity and rugged performance. It's part of the Ram truck lineup, which is popular for both work and personal use.
HEMI
"the Dodge Ram 2500 series four-wheel drive hemi hopefully it doesn't have the hemi tick..."
HEMI is a type of engine shape that helps it run better and produce more power. It's found in some Dodge and Chrysler cars.
HEMI refers to a type of engine design with hemispherical combustion chambers, which allows for better airflow and more power. It's commonly used in Chrysler and Dodge vehicles.
rear disc brakes
"...to do the rear disc brakes were just an absolute disaster the emergency brakes nonexistent..."
Rear disc brakes help slow down the car using a flat disc and a clamp. They work better than older drum brakes, especially when the car is going fast or when it gets hot.
Rear disc brakes are a type of braking system that uses a disc and caliper to slow down or stop the vehicle. They are often found on performance and modern vehicles due to their superior stopping power and heat dissipation compared to drum brakes.
emergency brakes
"...the emergency brakes nonexistent everything rusted out corroded..."
Emergency brakes are used to keep the car from rolling when parked. They can also help stop the car in an emergency if the regular brakes stop working.
Emergency brakes, also known as parking brakes, are designed to keep a vehicle stationary when parked and can also be used in emergencies to slow down or stop the vehicle if the main brakes fail.
rusted out
"...everything rusted out corroded there was nothing to save..."
'Rusted out' means that parts of the car have become so rusty that they are broken or can't be used anymore. This often happens to older cars or those in bad weather.
'Rusted out' refers to parts of a vehicle that have deteriorated due to rust, often making them unusable or unsafe. This is common in older vehicles or those exposed to harsh weather conditions.
rear brake pads
"...to do the rear brake pads rear I'll say that in a minute try it again rear brake pads disc brake rotors calipers both sides..."
Rear brake pads are parts of the braking system that help stop the car. When you press the brake pedal, these pads push against the wheels to slow down the vehicle.
Rear brake pads are the friction components that press against the brake rotors to slow down or stop the vehicle. They are crucial for effective braking performance.
disc brake rotors
"...rear brake pads disc brake rotors calipers both sides whatever you do to one side you do the other side..."
Disc brake rotors are round metal pieces attached to the wheels. When you brake, the pads squeeze these rotors to help stop the car.
Disc brake rotors are metal discs that rotate with the wheels. When the brake pads clamp down on them, they create friction to slow the vehicle down.
calipers
"...brake pads disc brake rotors calipers both sides whatever you do to one side you do the other side..."
Calipers are parts that hold the brake pads and push them against the rotors when you press the brake pedal. They help slow down the car.
Calipers are components of the braking system that house the brake pads and apply pressure to the rotors when braking. They are essential for effective braking.
Sam's Auto Center
"...by the time i was finished with it and i would send it off to my friend sam who had sam's auto center and get him to safety..."
Sam's Auto Center is a place where cars are fixed and maintained. It's like a garage where you can take your car if it needs repairs or check-ups.
Sam's Auto Center is likely a local automotive repair shop where vehicles are serviced and repaired. Such centers typically handle a variety of automotive needs, from routine maintenance to more extensive repairs.
fuel system maintenance
"...should always have your fuel tank full prevents fuel system what i call..."
Fuel system maintenance means taking care of the parts that deliver fuel to your engine. Keeping these parts clean helps your car run better and can save you money on repairs.
Fuel system maintenance involves keeping the fuel tank, lines, and injectors clean and functioning properly. Regular maintenance helps prevent issues like fuel contamination and engine performance problems.
Volkswagen Rabbit
"... what are you trying to prove by doing that jack rabbit starts and hammering on the brakes jack rabbit s..."
The Volkswagen Rabbit is a small car that people liked because it was easy to drive and good on gas. It became popular in the 70s and 80s because it was affordable and fun to use, making it a favorite for many drivers.
The Volkswagen Rabbit, known as the Golf in many markets, is a compact car that gained popularity for its practicality and fun driving experience. It was significant in the 1970s and 1980s as a symbol of the growing interest in small, fuel-efficient vehicles. The Rabbit is often discussed for its sporty handling and versatility.
jack rabbit starts
"...by doing that jack rabbit starts and hammering on the brakes jack rabbit..."
Jack rabbit starts are when a driver takes off really fast from a stop, like a rabbit jumping away. This can be hard on the car and can wear out parts like brakes and tires faster.
Jack rabbit starts refer to a driving style where the driver accelerates quickly from a stop, often leading to rapid acceleration. This can cause excessive wear on the vehicle's components, particularly the brakes and tires.
full service
"and a full service twice a year because i'm easy on my equipment if a vehicle sits more than it's brakes are a tough thing to keep on the car"
A full service is when a mechanic checks and changes important parts of your car, like the oil and filters, to keep it running well. It's like a check-up for your car.
A full service typically includes a comprehensive check of various vehicle systems, including oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, and inspections of brakes, tires, and other critical components. This helps ensure the vehicle runs smoothly and safely.
brake service
"but you got to do the work so you're going to set your vehicle up for a service a brake service once every four months..."
Brake service means checking and fixing the parts that help your car stop. This is important to keep your car safe and make sure the brakes work well.
A brake service involves inspecting and maintaining the braking system of a vehicle, including checking the brake pads, rotors, and calipers. Regular brake services help ensure safe and effective braking performance.
lubricate
"and make sure that we don't have something that's seizing up and burning out your brakes prematurely so i'm going to clean and lubricate all the moving components..."
Lubricate means putting oil or grease on parts of the car so they move smoothly and don’t wear out too quickly. It helps keep everything working well.
Lubrication in the context of vehicle maintenance refers to applying a substance (like grease or oil) to moving parts to reduce friction, prevent wear, and ensure smooth operation. This is essential for components like brake calipers and other moving parts.
oil change
"wouldn't usually include an oil change so you're booting these things down the highway hot and heavy needs an oil change every four months..."
An oil change is when you replace the old oil in your car's engine with new oil. This is important to keep the engine running smoothly and to prevent damage.
An oil change is the process of replacing old engine oil with new oil to ensure proper lubrication and functioning of the engine. Regular oil changes help maintain engine health and performance.
standard operating procedure (SOP)
"you do that as an sop standard operating procedure you'll be shocked and odd how much how much money comes back in your pocket..."
A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of instructions that tells you how to do something correctly every time. In car maintenance, it helps make sure everything is done right.
A standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of step-by-step instructions compiled by an organization to help workers carry out routine operations. In automotive maintenance, SOPs ensure consistent and effective service.
rust proofing
"...I look after the body it gets it's rust proofing annually keep keep ahead of the curve of the curve of the corrosion the rusties..."
Rust proofing is a way to keep your car from getting rusty. It involves putting a special coating on the car to protect it from things like rain and salt that can cause rust.
Rust proofing is a process that helps protect a vehicle's body from corrosion by applying a protective coating. This is especially important for vehicles exposed to harsh weather conditions or road salt, which can accelerate rusting.
drag racing
"...my brother was drag racing the family car and he broke two of them that was when my pop said if you think you're going to be driving our car when you get your license think again..."
Drag racing is when two cars race each other in a straight line to see who can go the fastest. It's a popular sport, especially among car enthusiasts, and often takes place on a track.
Drag racing is a type of motor racing where two vehicles compete to see which can cover a straight distance in the shortest time, typically a quarter mile. It's often associated with street racing culture and can involve modified cars for increased performance.
skin in the game
"...it was my car i had the skin in the game it's my car my insurance my gas my fixing period..."
'Skin in the game' means you have a personal investment in something. In this case, it means the speaker had to pay for their own car and take care of it, making them more responsible about it.
Having 'skin in the game' means having a personal investment or stake in a situation, which often leads to more responsible decision-making. In the context of car ownership, it refers to the owner being financially responsible for their vehicle, including maintenance and insurance.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.