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Why do business with STS?

  • 100% employee-owned
  • Over 100 locations
  • Over 45 years of quality service
  • Largest independent tire & auto company in the North East

Brake Service

Your brakes consist of two systems:

Master Cylinder

The master cylinder is the heart of the brake system, which contains a reservoir for brake fluid. The master cylinder, located on the firewall and connected to the brake pedal, should be checked periodically for contaminants and to ensure the proper fluid level.

Brake Lines & Hoses

Steel brake-tubing and rubber brake hoses carry the brake fluid from the master cylinder. Rust and constant exposure to road grime, dirt, salt and other elements can lead to leaks. Any damaged lines should be replaced immediately.

Calipers & Wheel Cylinders

As you depress your brake pedal, fluid enters into the calipers and wheel cylinders. All calipers and wheel cylinders contain fluid-activated pistons that push the brake shoes and pads against the drums or rotors to slow the vehicle down. If a brake fluid leak is present, the vehicle could experience unreliable stopping, damage to new brake shoes or partial brake system failure.

1. Hydraulic Components

Brake Pads & Shoes
When you press on your brake pedal, the pads or shoes come in contact with the disc rotor or brake drum, which slows your vehicle to a complete stop. They should be checked periodically for cracks, uneven or excessive wear.
Disc Rotors & Brake Drums
These components are the surfaces that your brake pads and shoes press against to stop your vehicle. Rotors and drums should be checked for heat marks, cracks and deep scoring.
Parking Brake
The parking brake system, commonly referred to as the “emergency brake,” is available should you experience a complete hydraulic brake system failure. These cables connect directly to your rear wheels and need no fluids or valves to apply pressure to stop your wheels. These cables need periodic adjustment for dependable use.

2. Friction Materials

  • Inspect the hydraulic systems for leaks, fluid contamination, caliper and wheel cylinder performance
  • Inspect the disc pads and brake shoes and replace with lifetime parts on most vehicles
  • Measure and inspect disc rotors and brake drums and resurface or replace as necessary
  • Inspect parking brake system and adjust as needed
  • Road test vehicle to ensure peak braking performance

Brake Service