Automotive and Mechanics Brake Systems 1

Question 1

What type of brake fluid is most commonly specified for standard passenger vehicles in the United States?

Accepted Answer

DOT 3 (glycol-based)

Answer

DOT 3 is the most widely specified glycol-based brake fluid for standard passenger vehicles and meets FMVSS 116 requirements.

Question 2

What is the primary function of the master cylinder in a hydraulic brake system?

Accepted Answer

Convert mechanical pedal force into hydraulic pressure

Answer

The master cylinder converts the mechanical force applied to the brake pedal into hydraulic pressure that travels through the lines to actuate the brakes.

Question 3

Which type of brake assembly uses calipers that squeeze pads against a rotating disc to slow the vehicle?

Accepted Answer

Disc brake

Answer

Disc brakes use a caliper that clamps brake pads against a flat rotating rotor (disc), generating friction to decelerate the wheel.

Question 4

What does the abbreviation ABS stand for in automotive brake terminology?

Accepted Answer

Anti-lock Braking System

Answer

ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) prevents wheel lockup during hard braking by rapidly modulating hydraulic pressure at each wheel.

Question 5

At what minimum remaining thickness (mm) should disc brake pads typically be replaced?

Accepted Answer

3 mm

Answer

Brake pads should be replaced at approximately 3 mm (about 1/8 inch) of remaining friction material to maintain safe stopping performance.

Automotive and Mechanics Practice Test

Automotive and Mechanics Practice Test

Automotive and Mechanics Brake Systems 1