Disk brake systems work by using hydraulic pressure to press a pad against the rotor to slow the vehicle. When the brake pedal is pressed, it acts upon the piston in the master cylinder which sends pressure via the brake lines to the caliper. The pad-to-rotor friction stops the wheel from turning.

The rotor is a circular plate that is gripped by the brake pads in order to slow the vehicle.

The brake pad is friction material that is pressed against the rotor to stop the wheel from turning.

The caliper holds the brake pads. It straddles the rotor and uses hydraulic pressure from the brake lines, along with internal pistons, to force the brake pads against the rotor.

The brake pedal works as a lever to apply pressure against the master cylinder.

The master cylinder moves brake fluid under pressure to the rest of the braking system.