Which component directly presses the brake pads against the rotors?

The brake caliper is the component responsible for directly pressing the brake pads against the rotors. When the driver applies the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is sent from the master cylinder to the brake caliper. Inside the caliper, there are pistons that move outward when the hydraulic pressure is applied. This movement pushes the brake pads against the rotor, creating the friction necessary to slow down or stop the vehicle. The design and function of the brake caliper are crucial for effective braking performance, as it ensures that the brake pads make firm contact with the rotor to achieve efficient braking action.

Components like the brake booster, brake pedal, and master cylinder play supporting roles in the braking system. The brake booster assists in amplifying the force applied on the brake pedal, while the master cylinder converts that mechanical force into hydraulic pressure. The brake pedal is simply the interface used by the driver to initiate the braking process.