Vehicle brake systems are critical components designed to slow down or stop a vehicle safely. The most common type of brake system is the disc brake, found in most modern vehicles. Disc brakes use a rotor (a metal disc) that is squeezed by brake pads when the brake pedal is pressed. This action generates friction, which slows the wheel’s rotation, effectively bringing the vehicle to a stop. Most vehicles also have drum brakes, typically found on the rear wheels of older or budget vehicles. Drum brakes use a set of shoes that press outward against a spinning drum, again creating friction to slow the vehicle.Modern vehicles typically use hydraulic brake systems, where brake fluid is used to transfer the force from the brake pedal to the brake components. This hydraulic force allows for smoother and more consistent braking, even under high loads. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) are also now standard in many vehicles. ABS prevents the wheels from locking up during hard braking, which can lead to loss of control. This system pulsates the brakes rapidly to maintain traction between the tires and the road surface.In addition to traditional braking methods, regenerative braking is becoming common in electric and hybrid vehicles. This system recovers some of the vehicle’s kinetic energy during braking and converts it into electrical energy, which is then stored in the battery for later use. While all these systems serve the same basic function—stopping the vehicle—the technology continues to evolve, improving both safety and efficiency. Brake maintenance is vital for vehicle safety, and regular checks on brake pads, rotors, and fluid levels help ensure optimal performance.