Are Ford Fiesta rear brakes self-adjusting?
Yes—most Ford Fiesta models that use rear drum brakes have an automatic self-adjusting mechanism to keep the shoes close to the drum as they wear. If your Fiesta uses rear discs (a less common configuration for many trims), there is no self-adjuster. This article explains how it works, what to check, and what to do if you encounter issues.
Rear braking configurations across Fiesta generations
Across different generations and markets, the Fiesta has typically relied on rear drum brakes for the majority of trims. Some variants or markets have employed rear disc brakes, but drum brakes with automatic self-adjusters are the common setup for most Fiesta models.
- Most Ford Fiesta models with rear drum brakes use an automatic self-adjusting mechanism to maintain proper shoe clearance as wear occurs.
- Some higher-trim or market-specific variants may use rear discs, which do not have a self-adjuster in the same sense as drum brakes.
Understanding your specific model’s rear brake type is important because the presence of a self-adjuster depends on whether the brakes are drums or discs. If in doubt, consult your owner's manual or a dealership for the exact configuration on your VIN.
How self-adjusting drum brakes work
In a typical rear drum brake system with automatic self-adjustment, an internal mechanism (often a star wheel and pawl) automatically turns as the brakes are applied, widening the shoe-to-drum gap slightly to compensate for wear. This keeps the braking efficiency consistent without requiring user intervention. The adjustment usually happens during normal braking (and may also engage during parking brake use on some designs).
Before relying on this behavior, note that not all drum brake systems are universally auto-adjusting in every market or generation. If the self-adjuster isn’t functioning, you may notice changes in pedal feel or parking brake effectiveness, or you might need a service to restore proper clearance.
Automatic self-adjustment vs. manual adjustment
Most modern Fiesta models with rear drum brakes rely on the automatic self-adjuster. In older or certain market variants, there may still be a manual adjuster accessible from the backing plate; this is rare on newer Fiests but can appear on older service manuals. The following sections differentiate the two approaches.
Before performing any adjustment, ensure you have the correct procedure for your specific model and year. If you’re unsure, seek professional guidance to avoid incorrect adjustment or drum-assembly damage.
- Automatic self-adjustment occurs as you brake, without user intervention, to maintain correct shoe contact as wear happens.
- Manual adjustment involves removing the drum, locating the star wheel through a small access port, and turning it with a tool to set the correct clearance.
In most modern Fiests, you will not need to manually adjust the rear brakes unless the self-adjuster has failed or the drum/gear mechanism has been replaced or serviced improperly.
Diagnostics: signs your self-adjuster may be failing
If you suspect the rear brakes aren’t self-adjusting properly, these indicators can help you diagnose the issue. Keep in mind that other brake problems can produce similar symptoms, so a professional inspection is recommended if you’re unsure.
- Increased pedal travel or a soft pedal feeling during braking
- Uneven or unusual wear on rear brake shoes or drums
- Poor or intermittent parking brake performance
- Squeaking, grinding, or dragging noises from the rear brakes
If you notice any of these signs, have the rear braking system inspected. A failed self-adjuster or worn components can reduce braking efficiency and may require adjustment, shoe replacement, or drum resurfacing/replacement.
Maintenance and practical guidance
Routine inspection and appropriate maintenance help ensure rear brakes (including any self-adjusting mechanism) function correctly. The following guidance applies to drum-brake configurations commonly found on Fiests.
- Regularly inspect rear drums for scoring, cracks, or scoring in the drum surface and check for consistent shoe wear across both sides.
- Measure drum diameter and shoe width to determine if replacement is needed according to the manufacturer’s limits.
- Test parking brake operation to confirm it holds the vehicle on a slope and that it engages evenly on both sides.
- If the self-adjuster seems to be sticking or no automatic adjustment occurs, do not force the mechanism. Have a qualified technician diagnose and service the drum-brake assembly.
Professional service may involve cleaning the internal mechanism, replacing worn shoes, resurfacing or replacing drums, and ensuring the automatic adjuster (if present) operates smoothly.
Summary
For most Ford Fiesta models with rear drum brakes, the rear braking system includes an automatic self-adjusting mechanism that keeps shoe-to-drum clearance properly maintained as wear occurs. If your Fiesta uses rear discs, there is no self-adjuster as part of the braking system. Regular inspection of the rear brakes, including shoe wear, drum condition, and parking brake performance, helps ensure reliable braking. If you experience symptoms of poor adjustment or suspect a malfunction, consult a qualified technician to diagnose and service the system.
In short: check your brake type (drum vs disc), understand that drum-brake Fiests typically rely on an automatic self-adjuster, and seek professional help if you notice signs of improper adjustment or reduced braking performance.
What is the most common problem with the Ford Fiesta?
Common Problems with Ford Fiestas
- Transmission Problems. Owners of this hatchback report a significant number of transmission problems, especially where models with PowerShift six-speed automatic transmission are concerned.
- Engine Problems.
- Interior Accessories Problems.
- Wider Powertrain Problems.
How do I know if my brakes are self-adjusting?
Now the easiest way to tell if you have a Lippert self-adjusting or manually adjusting brake is a look in the back of the brake. And the two holes indicates that it's a self-adjusting brake.
Do rear drum brakes automatically adjust?
Drum brakes utilize a self-adjusting system to identify any slack that may develop.
Do Ford Fiestas have rear brakes?
Like most cars, your Ford Fiesta has 4 brake pads: two at the front and two at the back. You don't necessarily have to replace them all at the same time.
