Brakes and Traction Control: Description and Operation

2012 Ford Taurus AWD V6-3.5LSECTION Description and Operation



Brake System

The brake system consists of the following components:

- Front and rear disc brakes

- Cable/caliper actuated parking brake

- Brake master cylinder and fluid reservoir

- Vacuum-assisted power brake booster

- Four-wheel ABS

- Red brake light indicator

The brake pedal is connected to the power brake booster, which is connected to the brake master cylinder. When the brake pedal is pressed, brake fluid is pushed through the double-walled steel tubes and flexible hoses to the front and rear disc brake calipers. The brake fluid enters the disc brake calipers, forcing the caliper pistons and brake pads outward against the brake disc friction surface, slowing or stopping rotation. When the brake pedal is released, brake fluid pressure is relieved, returning the front and rear disc brake caliper pistons and brake pads to the unapplied position.

For additional information on the following:

- Front disc brakes, refer to Disc Brake System.

- Rear disc brakes, refer to Disc Brake System.

- Parking brake actuation, refer to Parking Brake System.

- Hydraulic brake actuation, refer to Hydraulic System, Brakes &/or Brake Pedal Assy.

- Vacuum-assisted power brake booster, refer to Power Brake Assist.

- ABS, refer to Antilock Brakes / Traction Control Systems.
RENDER: 1.0x

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When to See a Mechanic

Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:

  • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
  • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
  • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
  • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
  • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.