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The master cylinder displaces hydraulic brake fluid under pressure to
the rest of the brake system. When the brake pedal is depressed, the
push rod moves the primary piston forward in the cylinder. The
hydraulic pressure created and the force of the primary piston spring
moves the secondary piston forward. When the forward movement of the
pistons causes their primary cups to cover the bypass holes,
hydraulic pressure builds up and is transmitted to the wheel
cylinders. When the pedal retracts, the pistons allow fluid from the
reservoir to fill the chamber if needed. Special sensors within the
master cylinder are used to monitor the level of the fluid in the
reservoir, and to alert the driver if a pressure imbalance develops.
The standard dual master cylinder gives the front and rear brakes
separate hydraulic systems. If a brake fluid leak occurs in one
system, the other system will still operate, making it possible to
stop the car.
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