Although critical to safety, brakes are simple to work on. Most modern cars use the same system – hydraulic fluid pushing brake pads to stop a rotating metal disc to slow you down. Drum brakes require a bit more involvement but even so a competent DIYer can overcome any problems associated with working on drums and shoes. Handbrake operation differs from each carmaker so familiarise yourself with how it works by following our step-by-step guides.

Although critical to safety, brakes are simple to work on. Most modern cars use the same system – hydraulic fluid pushing brake pads to stop a rotating metal disc to slow you down. Drum brakes require a bit more involvement but even so a competent DIYer can overcome any problems associated with working on drums and shoes. Handbrake operation dif....