The Significance of Brake Servo and How It Works: Importance of Regular Maintenance and Checking MOT History
The brake servo, also known as the brake booster, is a
crucial component of the braking system in a vehicle. It is responsible for
increasing the force applied to the brakes when the brake pedal is pressed.
This is accomplished by using the vacuum pressure from the engine to amplify
the force applied to the brake pedal, making it easier for the driver to apply
the brakes.
The brake servo is particularly important in larger vehicles,
such as trucks and SUVs, where the brake pedal can require a significant amount
of force to operate. Without a brake servo, drivers would need to apply more
force to the pedal to achieve the same amount of braking force, which can be
both tiring and dangerous.
When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake servo uses the
vacuum pressure from the engine to create a vacuum in a chamber within the
servo unit. This vacuum then pulls on a diaphragm within the unit, which in
turn amplifies the force being applied to the brake pedal.
The amplified force is then transmitted to the brake master
cylinder, which sends hydraulic pressure to the brake calipers or drum brakes,
causing them to apply pressure to the brake rotors or drums, thus slowing down
or stopping the vehicle.
One way to check the functionality of the brake servo is by check MOT history
of the vehicle. MOT (Ministry of Transport) is an annual test that all vehicles
over three years old must undergo to ensure they meet certain safety and
environmental standards.
During the MOT history check, the
brakes are one of the key components that are checked. If the brake servo is
not working correctly, it can cause the vehicle to fail the MOT test.
Therefore, it is important to ensure that the brake servo is in good working
condition before the MOT test.
To check the brake servo, the mechanic will first inspect the
brake pedal to ensure that it is not spongy or difficult to press. They will
then check the vacuum hose that connects the servo to the engine, making sure
that it is not damaged or disconnected.
Next, the mechanic will perform a vacuum test on the servo to
ensure that it is generating sufficient vacuum pressure. If the vacuum test
fails, it may be necessary to replace the servo unit.
Finally, the mechanic will check the brake master cylinder to
ensure that it is not leaking and that it is functioning correctly. A faulty
master cylinder can also cause the brakes to fail, even if the brake servo is
working correctly.
In addition to the MOT test, it is important to have the
brake servo checked regularly as part of routine maintenance. Signs of a faulty
brake servo include a spongy or unresponsive brake pedal, a hissing noise when
the brakes are applied, or difficulty in applying the brakes.
If any of these symptoms are present, it is important to have
the brake servo inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. A faulty
brake servo can compromise the safety of the vehicle and can cause the brakes
to fail, potentially leading to an accident.
In conclusion, the brake servo is a crucial component of the
braking system in a vehicle. It works by using vacuum pressure to amplify the
force applied to the brake pedal, making it easier for the driver to apply the
brakes. Checking the brake servo regularly, including before the MOT test can
help ensure that the vehicle is safe to drive and prevent brake failure.
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