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Disk brake
In 1955, Citroën equipped the DS with front disc brakes.
This system comprises a metallic disc with two perfectly smooth faces, integral with the shaft that turns the wheels. When the driver brakes, the pressurised liquid in the accumulator is sent to the mobile calliper, which has two jaws fitted with pads. The liquid moves a piston, which brings the mobile pad into contact with the disc and causes the calliper to bring the second pad into braking contact on the disc.
Braking pressure is balanced automatically and is uniform across the entire friction surface of the pads. There is little play between the disc and the pad, so braking is practically instantaneous. An automatic compensation system ensures that a constant distance is maintained between the disc and the pads, no matter how worn they may be.