What is the Brake Wheel Cylinder all about?
Brake wheel cylinders push the brake shoes against the brake drum, causing friction that slows down the car. They are located in the rear brake system, inside the brake drums. Over time, wheel cylinder seals may wear out and start leaking brake fluid, reducing the effectiveness of the brakes.
Keep in mind:
Brake wheel cylinders are replaced in pairs. Both rear tires will get new cylinders.
How it's done:
- Inspect rear wheel cylinders for leakage.
- Inspect rear brake shoes and hardware.
- Replace wheel cylinders if found faulty.
- Adjust rear brakes.
- Lube backing plate.
- Make sure axle seals are not leaking into brake drums.
- Bleed entire brake system.
- Perform a brake inspection, including test drive.
Our recommendation:
It is a good idea to get the brake wheel cylinders inspected once every year. You should get your brake system inspected immediately if the brake warning light is on.
What common symptoms indicate you may need to replace the Brake Wheel Cylinder?
- Brake pedal goes all the way to the floor.
- Noise from rear brakes.
- Fluid leaking underneath the car near rear tires.
How important is this service?
When you depress your brake pedal, the brake wheel cylinder applies pressure to the brake shoe. This pressure pushes the brake shoe into contact with the brake drum, which creates the friction that allows your vehicle to slow down and stop. When the brake wheel cylinder stops working, it is no longer able to exert enough force onto the brake shoe, and your vehicle will not be able to brake as effectively as it should.
