WHEEL CYLINDERS

WHAT ARE WHEEL CYLINDERS?

Wheel cylinders are what apply the rear brake shoes to the drum in order to bring your vehicle to a stop.

How will I know when it's time for replacement?

Place your mouse over the picture to see a wheel cylinder already on the vehicle.  It pushes pins out each end in order to apply the brake shoes

• A common sign of a wheel cylinder that is leaking would be a soft pedal due to the brake fluid leaking out instead of building pressure.

• You may also notice that the rear brakes appear to be locking up when the fronts are not.  This is caused by brake fluid contaminating the rear shoes and causing them to stick to the drums.

• Your tires should be rotated every 6,000 miles or 10,000 km and a brake inspection should be performed at the same time.  During this inspection the technician will inspect for wheel cylinders that are leaking or seizing.

DID YOU KNOW.......

Not having your brakes inspected every 6,000 miles or 10,000 km could be the cause of other failures that cause further damage or even an accident.  This is one of the many instances where sub sequential damage may add up to being more than the cost of the original repair.  Have your brakes inspected every 6 months / 6,000 miles or 10,000 km when your tires are being rotated to ensure your safety as well as avoid any further cost.