Brakes & Wheel Hubs

Your vehicle's braking system converts kinetic energy into heat through friction while wheel hubs and bearings support rotating wheels and provide smooth operation. These components work together to ensure safe stopping power and proper wheel rotation under all driving conditions.

Common symptoms include squealing or grinding noises during braking, vibration in the brake pedal or steering wheel, spongy brake feel, brake warning lights, uneven tire wear, wheel wobble, or humming sounds that increase with vehicle speed.

This category includes brake pads and rotors for friction surfaces, disc brake calipers and drums for applying pressure, brake master cylinders and hydraulic hoses for fluid pressure, wheel bearing and hub assemblies for rotation support, ABS wheel speed sensors for electronic control, and parking brake cables for stationary holding.

Choose OE-equivalent parts that match your vehicle's specifications exactly. Replace brake components in axle sets for even performance, and consider complete brake kits when multiple components show wear. Quality wheel bearings feature proper sealing and metallurgy for extended service life.

How do disc and drum brake systems create stopping power?

Disc brakes use calipers to squeeze brake pads against rotors, while drum brakes use wheel cylinders to push brake shoes against the inner surface of brake drums. Both systems convert vehicle momentum into heat energy through controlled friction.

What warning signs indicate brake or wheel bearing problems?

Listen for squealing during braking, grinding metal-on-metal sounds, humming that changes with speed, or clicking during turns. Feel for brake pedal vibration, steering wheel shake, or spongy brake response that requires more pedal travel.

Should brake components be replaced individually or in sets?

Always replace brake pads, shoes, and rotors in axle pairs to maintain balanced braking force. Replace brake fluid when installing new master cylinders, and consider complete brake service when multiple hydraulic components fail simultaneously.