96 years ago, vehicles had
mechanical brakes. Things improved after WWII, when vehicles got
hydraulic brakes. That is, as long as the six (+) hydraulic cylinders didn't develop leaks. (Which, of course, they eventually
did). It wouldn't be long before some white-knuckled driving ensued.
Jaguar introduced the benefits of
disk brakes to the auto industry, which allowed all drivers to tailgate closer than ever.
Reliability soared, as little could go wrong--especially with disks on all four wheels.
Other problems with brakes involve the hydraulic
hoses that connect to every design of hydraulic braking systems. Hoses can fail
internally, applying brakes long after the brake pedal is released.
Externally, leaks can be detected by eye.
Disks (and drums) can crack or wear substantially, but either case can be detected with minimal angst.
Individual inspection stations can express a need to emulate the DMV.
I'd mentioned (here) back when Florida had inspections, that my vehicle got a
red sticker because my horn was too loud.
