What component is responsible for applying hydraulic pressure to the brakes?

The master cylinder is the component responsible for applying hydraulic pressure to the brakes. When the brake pedal is pressed, the master cylinder converts the mechanical force from the pedal into hydraulic pressure. This pressure is then transmitted through the brake lines to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders, leading to the application of the brakes at the wheels.

The master cylinder contains a reservoir for brake fluid and has pistons that move in response to the pedal action, creating the hydraulic force necessary to engage the braking system. This hydraulic action is essential for enabling effective braking performance across various vehicle speeds and loads.

Other components, while closely related to the braking system, serve different purposes. The brake caliper, for example, houses the components that apply the friction material against the brake rotors to slow or stop the vehicle. The brake booster assists in reducing the effort needed to apply the brakes but doesn’t generate hydraulic pressure itself. The drum refers to a type of brake system (drum brakes) rather than a component that creates pressure. Understanding the role of each part helps clarify how the braking system functions as a whole, with the master cylinder being key to generating the initial hydraulic force.