Brake lines are pipes or hoses in a vehicle's braking system that carry brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brake components (like the brake calipers or wheel cylinders). The fluid is responsible for creating the pressure needed to apply the brakes and stop the vehicle.
There are two main types of brake lines:
1. **Metal Brake Lines**: These are made of steel or copper and are used in most cars. They're rigid and designed to last a long time, but they can corrode over time due to moisture or road salt.
2. **Rubber Brake Hoses**: These are flexible hoses used in areas that require movement, like at the wheels. They allow the brake system to expand and contract as the suspension moves.
When you press the brake pedal, brake fluid flows through these lines, transferring the force to the brake pads or shoes, which then create friction to slow down or stop the car. Brake lines are very important for the safety and reliability of a vehicle's braking system.