Asbestos is commonly found in which brake component?

The correct answer is brake pads because historically, asbestos was widely used in their production due to its excellent heat resistance and durability. Asbestos fibers helped in providing effective friction between the brake pad and the rotor, which is crucial for the braking process. However, because asbestos is a health hazard, its use in brake pads has been banned or significantly reduced in many regions, and alternative materials are now employed to achieve similar performance without the associated health risks.

Other components, such as the brake rotor, caliper, and return spring, do not typically contain asbestos. The rotor primarily serves as the disc that the brake pads clamp onto to create friction, while the caliper houses the brake pads and contains the hydraulics necessary for braking. The return spring assists in the retraction of brake components rather than contributing to friction material, making them less likely candidates for containing asbestos.