Car Brake Power System: How does it work in modern vehicles?

Posted on: Jan 17, 2025 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Car Brake Power System: How does it work in modern vehicles?

Modern technology has made driving a lot safer. A good example of contemporary automobile technology is the car power brake system. Power brakes exert an external force on the braking system, making it more efficient. Many logical reasons make a power brake an absolute must for modern vehicles. While there is no rule to have it in your car compulsorily, you will surely benefit from having it in the vehicle. Look at this article to learn all about power brakes, how they work and why they are so advantageous.

How do Power Brakes Work in Cars?

In a regular braking system, the driver presses the brake pedal and the force is exerted on the tyres, making it come to a gradual stop.

However, in power brakes, an air valve opens up as soon as the brake pedal is pressed. This air pushes a vacuum which in turn puts a strong force forward on the brakes, making the car come to a quick and steady stop. The human effort is reduced and the efficiency of the braking system increases.

Power brakes are very handy and popular, making the vehicle safer to drive. Another handy consequence of this technology is reduced accidents and a lower number of car insurance claims.

What are the Types of Power Brakes in Cars

As stated, power brakes are very useful in vehicles. There are different types of power brakes and it is important to know how they work so that you can opt for the best one for your car:

1. Vacuum Suspended

The first type of power brake is the vacuum-suspended power brake. Here, the vacuum created in the engine of the vehicle is used to exert more force when the brake pedal is pressed by the driver. This increases efficiency and makes the car come to a quick stop. Vacuum-suspended power brakes are quite common in vehicles in India.

2. Air Suspended

The working mechanism of an air-suspended power brake is similar to that of a vacuum-suspended power brake. However, instead of a vacuum, air pressure is applied to the brake. This gives it external support which enhances its performance. Air-suspended brakes are very effective and are generally used in heavy-duty vehicles such as SUVs, buses and trucks.

3. Hydraulic Booster

Hydraulic fluids are present in the engine of all vehicles. The hydraulic booster power brakes utilise these fluids to aid in braking. The fluid pushes the brakes forward, making the car stop smoothly and safely. This system offers a steady and precise braking experience every time.

4. Electro-Hydraulic Booster

This is an evolved version of the hydraulic booster braking system. Here, electric force boosts the performance of the hydraulic booster power brake, thereby increasing its performance and safety to a large extent.

Choose the one that suits you the best to get the desired results. Do your research about the chosen vehicle model you wish to buy and see which type of power brake it has. Once that is done, you will have greater clarity and will be able to choose wisely.

Advantages of Power Brakes

Here are some reasons that make it logical for you to opt for power brakes:

1. Better performance

This is quite an obvious advantage, but the power braking systems definitely improve the performance of the vehicle. As you know, the brakes are one of the most crucial components of a car. Unless the brake of your car works properly, you won't be able to drive the car. Hence, installing power brakes is always beneficial as it helps improve the performance of the vehicle, making it safer and smoother to drive.

2. Reduced effort

Whether it is a sudden emergency brake or a panicked brake due to a mechanical failure in the car, it is natural for you to press on the pedal with all your might to make the car come to a quick stop. However, when you have power brakes, you do not have to do so. A gentle tap on the brake makes the vehicle come to a stop as the external power quickly and efficiently makes the car come to a halt. This is a very handy benefit and a big reason why you must opt for a power brake.

3. Safety

Malfunctioning brakes are very concerning. But with power brakes, you always have the guarantee that your brakes are functioning properly. It enhances the safety of the vehicle and its occupants, making it a must-have!

4. Easy to maintain

And last but not least, the modern-day power brakes are very well-designed and extremely easy to maintain. You do not have to put in any extra effort for maintenance. Just ensure you get it serviced properly and at regular intervals. If you notice any issue with the brakes, call the technician and ask him to take a look.

Listed above are some of the most handy benefits of power brakes. You can see how advantageous they are and understand why you need them in your vehicles.

Conclusion

Power brakes are extremely beneficial and hence, are a common feature on most modern vehicles. Even though it is not a mandatory requirement, car manufacturers and owners insist on having it because of all the reasons stated above. If you are in the process of buying a new vehicle, get one with a power brake. There are different types of power brakes and now that you know more about each, opt for a vehicle with the power brake you like. Just like a comprehensive car insurance plan, a power brake helps to keep you and your vehicle safe, so go for it.

Disclaimer: The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to the policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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