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.