What are 4-wheel disk brakes and how are they different from the normal brakes?

Answer 1

There are two types of brakes used on cars (okay, there are more than two if you count some really outdated options).

Older cars (and some cheaper newer ones) have drum brakes. These are literally a drum inside each wheel, with brake pads mounted inside. You apply the brakes and the pads come in contact with the drum to stop the car.

Four wheel drum brakes would include one of each of these per wheel.

Disk brakes use a flat metal disk. The pads are located on both sides of the disk (imagine holding a frisbee, the pads would be where your fingers and thumb are), and they pinch the disk when you step on the brakes.

Some cars have 2 disk brakes (up front), and 2 drum brakes (in back).

So, 4-wheel disk brakes denotes disks on each wheel.

You can see them if you turn the front tires to one side and look behind the wheel.

Disk brakes are lighter weight, and have more stopping power with less braking surface. They also stay cooler and typically have a longer life. Water doesn't affect them as much either.

Answer 2

All four wheels have disk brakes, common in all middle and upper models of vehicles now a days. The basic models have front (the drive axel) disk and drum in the rear. Old cars had all four drum brakes and only 'performance' models had disk. Disk brakes are much more efficient and suitable for use in ABS or anti-lock braking systems.

Answer 3

Originally, all four brakes were "drum" type. They would stop the car, but would pull the car from side to side occasionally. Then came front disc brakes. They would stop the car better and faster. Then, the logical conclusion would be that all 4 wheels be stopped by a disc brake.....the best of situations.

Answer 4

It means that all of your tires have disk brakes instead of drum brakes. Disk brakes have better stopping power then drum brakes.