Driving with your brake lights out puts you and your passengers at risk. So how do you identify and fix the problem? Here are the illuminating answers. See more »

The base brake system in all modern cars is very similar to the hydraulic brake system introduced in the 1920 Duesenberg. Brake testing is simple and straightforward -- only a few hand tools are necessary. See more »

When it comes to braking, different drivers have different reaction times. These might depend on weather, drive skill, or road conditions. Do you know what how much braking distance you need? We'll show you the test. See more »

Long gone are the days of start lines, stopwatches and measuring tape. Today, brake-system testers use windshield-mounted accelerometers, dynamometers and global positioning systems to gather information. See more »

Riveted brakes are far less common now than they once were, yet still several types of brake riveting tools are out there. The tools are pretty straightforward, but we have a few tips to share with you. See more »

Your brakes use friction to slow and stop your car, but you might be surprised to learn that your brakes also need the correct lubricant to work properly. Be careful though: A little lube in the wrong place can ruin your car. See more »

It's a familiar scene: You're at your local auto service counter paying for an oil change and a tire rotation when your mechanic asks if you'd also like your brakes flushed. Is it really necessary? See more »

There are actually several reasons that your brake pedal might suddenly go all the way to the floor when you're trying to slow or stop your car. So why would it do that? And is it really all that bad? See more »

There's no doubt your car's brakes are important. While other breakdowns are a bother, if your brakes fail, you could be in for a real disaster. It's all avoidable -- if you know how to test your brakes. See more »

Though you might not be equipped to handle a brake job -- after all, you're taking your life in your own hands -- anyone who's willing to get a little greasy can chase down the source of a brake problem. What are some tests used to determine faulty brakes? See more »