Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Brake System
The brake system has the following components:
- Diagonal split hydraulic system
- Fixed position foot pedal
- Four-wheel anti-lock brake system (4WABS). Refer to VEHICLE DYNAMIC SYSTEMS article.
- Front brake discs utilizing a single piston floating brake caliper
- Master cylinder
- Mechanical parking brake system utilizing a drum-in-hat type brake within the rear brake discs
- Rear drum brake system
- Vacuum-assisted power brake booster
The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is applied, brake fluid is pushed through the doubled-walled steel tubes and flexible hoses to the front disc brake calipers and rear drum brake wheel cylinders. The brake fluid enters the disc brake calipers and drum brake wheel cylinders, forcing the caliper and cylinder pistons, brake pads, and brake shoes outward against the brake disc and drum friction surfaces, slowing or stopping wheel rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is relieved, returning the front disc brake and the rear drum brake systems to the unapplied position. The parking brake system uses the rear drum brakes and is self-adjusting.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.