Brake fluid pressure sensor
A brake fluid pressure sensor senses the brake fluid pressure in a hydraulic braking system. The sensor is a type of pressure switch that shows and alerts a fault in the braking system.
Brake problems
The fault could be lack of hydraulic fluid, low brake fluid in the reservoir, a broken hydraulic line or a bad master brake cylinder. The sensor is used to detect pressure differentials in the hydraulic system. If the car alerts a fault in the hydraulic system and the system checks out, the sensor itself may have failed.
Design
The sensor has an input port to measure the hydraulic braking pressure and an electrical connector output for a wire connection for feeding the warning light. Some brake failures do not trip the sensor into a fault mode.
A brake fluid pressure sensor is used in anti-lock braking system (ABS). ABS fault lights come on with unexpected wheel lock from the ABS system, but could also include low fluid in the reservoir.[1][2][3][4]
New accident avoidance technologies system also use brake fluid pressure sensors.[5]
Many large heavy vehicles, like trucks, particularly those having multiple trailers use air brakes that use air pressure sensors.
Examples
- Mechanical Pressure Switch with integrated connector
- Mechanical Pressure Switch with Plug-in connector
See also
References
- yourmechanic.com, Symptoms of a Bad or Failing ABS Fluid Level Sensor
- nhtsa.gov, National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, DOT HS 811 251, April 2010, Human Performance Evaluation of Light Vehicle Brake Assist Systems, page 33
- 2017 CT.gov Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, Hydraulic Brake System and Trailer Brake Inspection Procedure, 2012
- Mazda Mazda CX-5 Service & Repair Manual, DSC HU/CM
- DEVELOPMENT OF THE NISSAN ASV-2, Shinji Matsumoto, Toru Yasuda Takeshi Kimura, Taku Takahama, Hiromitsu Toyota, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.,Japan,Paper Number: 382, accident avoidance technologies