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The brake master cylinder is an assembly that transfers the level of pressure the driver applies to the brake pedal to the calipers and drums. Pressing the brake pedal actuates a piston inside the master cylinder, forcing brake fluid through the brake lines and into the slave cylinders. If your vehicle leaks brake fluid, the brake pedal gets soft, or there’s a reduction in braking power, the brake master cylinder could be defective and in need of repair or replacement.

Part of the braking system, a brake slave cylinder is an assembly housing a piston that compresses and releases the brake shoes or pads in hydraulic brakes. If your slave cylinder is damaged, it likely will allow the hydraulic fluid or brake fluid to leak. This will result in decreased braking force, including a possible loss of braking.

A water pump replacement is needed when the water pump stops circulating or is leaking coolant. The water pump is a mechanical device attached to the engine that forces liquid coolant through the hoses, passageways, and radiators to move heat in the system. In most engines, a belt connects the pump and the crankshaft, transferring rotational power. Water pump failure can lead to overheating, leading to engine failure, so when a water pump goes bad, it must be repaired or replaced.

The timing belt, or “cambelt,” synchronizes the rotation of the camshaft and the crankshaft and is an item that must be removed and replaced with a new timing belt on some cars in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications. The camshaft opens and closes the valves that let air into the combustion chamber. The crankshaft causes the pistons to move up and down. The timing belt turns the crankshaft and coordinates the firing of the pistons, which develops an engine’s power.

Brake lines are hoses that transfer brake fluid from a reservoir through a pump or modulator to a brake master cylinder to create hydraulic pressure to push the brake pads against the disc rotor or drum brake, slowing or stopping the vehicle. If the brake fluid becomes depleted or air enters the brake lines, the brake response can weaken and the brake lines will need to be bled or flushed. Hire a certified mechanic to perform this service, as special equipment is often required.

An alternator replacement is a physical action on an engine component, removing it and putting in a new or reconditioned unit to take its place and perform its function. The alternator is the belt-driven unit that charges the 12-volt battery as the engine runs. If you’re having trouble starting your car, you may need an alternator replacement. A malfunctioning alternator can cause underperforming lights, instruments, accessories, and a dead battery.