Brake system — general information (Honda Accord 6)

All models of cars considered in this Manual are equipped with a hydraulic brake system with vacuum booster. Disc brakes are always installed on the front wheels, while the rear wheel mechanisms can have either a disc or drum design.

All brake mechanisms are equipped with self-regulators. In this case, wear compensation of brake pads of disc mechanisms (front and rear) is carried out automatically, while special adjustment devices are installed on drum brake mechanisms, the activation of which occurs during braking, as well as when the parking brake is applied.

The dual design of the main brake cylinder (MBC) equipped with two separate reservoirs allows the hydraulic circuit to be divided into two circuits operating independently of each other. The latter means that if one of the circuits fails, the second continues to operate in the previous mode, ensuring adequate braking of the vehicle. The hydraulic circuits are arranged diagonally. Failure of any of the circuits naturally leads to a decrease in braking efficiency and is accompanied by the activation of a control lamp on the instrument panel when the foot brake pedal is depressed.

Master brake cylinder (MBC)

The brake master cylinder is mounted on the brake booster servo assembly, which is secured to the rear bulkhead of the engine compartment. On top of the cylinder is a large hydraulic fluid reservoir, equipped with a plastic cover. The reservoir is secured in the cylinder using bushings and a cylindrical pin.



As mentioned above, the master cylinder has a dual design, ensuring the operation of two independent hydraulic circuits. The fluid pressure in each circuit is pumped by an individual piston inside the main cylinder.

Pressure regulator

The valve regulator assembly is mounted on the rear bulkhead of the engine compartment, near the master cylinder, and provides pressure limitation in the hydraulic drive of the rear wheel brake mechanisms, preventing their premature locking during sharp braking. The valve does not prevent the pressure increase in the hydraulic circuits of the rear brake mechanisms only until it reaches a certain threshold value; further pressure increase is limited.

The regulator is one of the non-repairable components and in case of failure must be replaced as an assembly.

Vacuum brake booster

The booster uses the vacuum created in the intake manifold to improve the efficiency of the brake system hydraulic drive. The vacuum booster servo is mounted on the rear bulkhead of the engine compartment.

Parking brake

The parking brake control lever is located in the passenger compartment and acts on the rod to which a pair of drive cables are attached (one for each of the rear wheel brake mechanisms). When the lever is cocked on models equipped with drum rear brake mechanisms, the cables pull the actuator levers attached to the brake shoe assemblies in the mechanisms of both rear wheels. In this case, the shoes are spread apart, pressing against the working surface of the drums. On models with disc brake mechanisms of the rear wheels, the levers are attached to screw-type actuators in the caliper housings. The levers act on the caliper pistons, forcing the pads to press against the brake discs.

Precautionary measures

When servicing vehicle brake components, there are some special precautions that should be taken:

• a) Use only DOT 3 grade hydraulic fluid to fill the brake system;
• b) The friction linings of the brake pads/shoes may contain asbestos, which is harmful to health. Avoid inhaling brake dust, and do not blow it off with compressed air. Use only special cleaning agents to wipe brake components;
• c) Ensure that all required tolerances and tightening forces are observed. When servicing components, use only serviceable tools. If in doubt, seek help from specialists. Remember that proper functioning of the brakes is the key to traffic safety;
• d) At the slightest sign of malfunction of the braking system, operation of the vehicle must be suspended!