General information
All wheels of the cars considered in this Manual are equipped with disc brakes. Brake discs are ventilated. Standard anti-lock brake system (ABS). Optional automatic stability control with traction control / dynamic stability control (ASC+T/DSC), operating on the basis of the ABS system.
The brake system is divided diagonally into two independent hydraulic circuits and consists of a master brake cylinder (GTZ), vacuum booster and brake mechanisms. If one of the circuits fails (for example, as a result of seal failure) the second continues to function normally, providing adequate braking of the car. Fluid pressure in both circuits is generated by a tandem brake master cylinder (GTZ). The GTZ is activated when the service brake pedal is depressed.
The brake fluid reservoir is attached to the GTZ. The brake booster stores part of the vacuum created in the engine intake manifold.
The parking brake with a manual lever drive acts through the cables on the shoe assemblies that are part of the brake mechanisms of the rear wheels.
Bleeding and checking the brake system, as well as replacing the brake fluid are described in Sections Checking the brake system and clutch and Changing the brake fluid and bleeding the brake system Chapters Vehicle settings and routine maintenance.
Security measures
Brake fluid is one of the highly toxic and chemically aggressive compounds and, in contact with body panels, destroys the paintwork.
The dust produced during the wear of the brake pads may contain asbestos, which is harmful to human health - in no case should you inhale it when cleaning the brake mechanisms!
Working with the brake system requires special cleanliness and strict adherence to instructions. In the absence of the necessary experience, it is advisable to contact the service station.
When driving on wet roads, periodically press the brake pedal to remove moisture from the brake discs; In the process of wheel rotation, moisture is discharged from the brake discs under the action of centrifugal force, but a silicone film, rubber abrasion products, grease and other contaminants that reduce braking efficiency remain!
Corrosion-damaged disc brakes create a shaking effect during braking that does not disappear with time. In this case, the disks should be replaced.
Dirt sticking to the surface of the brake pads leads to the formation of grooves on the surface of the brake discs, which leads to a decrease in braking efficiency.