Do any cars still have drum brakes?
Drum brakes, once a staple in automotive braking systems, have largely been replaced by disc brakes in modern vehicles. However, they are not entirely obsolete. In this article, we’ll explore why drum brakes are still in use, the types of vehicles that commonly feature them, and the advantages they offer in specific applications.
Why Are Drum Brakes Still Used?
While disc brakes dominate the automotive market due to their superior stopping power and heat dissipation, drum brakes continue to be used in certain scenarios for several reasons:
- Cost-Effectiveness: Drum brakes are cheaper to manufacture and maintain, making them an attractive option for budget-friendly vehicles.
- Parking Brake Integration: Drum brakes are often used in rear wheels because they can easily incorporate a parking brake mechanism.
- Durability: In low-demand braking situations, such as in smaller or lighter vehicles, drum brakes can last longer than disc brakes due to their enclosed design, which protects them from dirt and debris.
Which Cars Still Use Drum Brakes?
Drum brakes are most commonly found on the rear wheels of certain types of vehicles. Here are some examples:
- Economy Cars: Many entry-level cars still use drum brakes on the rear wheels to keep costs down while using disc brakes on the front wheels for better stopping power.
- Trucks and SUVs: Some trucks and SUVs, especially those designed for heavy-duty use, feature drum brakes on the rear axle. This is because drum brakes can provide better performance under heavy loads.
- Commercial Vehicles: Larger commercial vehicles, such as buses and delivery trucks, often use drum brakes due to their durability and ability to handle high weight capacities.
Advantages of Drum Brakes
Despite their older design, drum brakes offer several advantages that keep them relevant in specific applications:
- Enclosed Design: The enclosed nature of drum brakes protects them from environmental factors like water, mud, and dirt, which can reduce wear and tear.
- Lower Maintenance Costs: Drum brakes typically require less frequent maintenance compared to disc brakes, especially in low-demand applications.
- Effective for Parking Brakes: Drum brakes are well-suited for use as parking brakes, as their design allows for a secure hold when the vehicle is stationary.
Conclusion
While drum brakes are no longer the primary braking system in most modern vehicles, they remain a practical and cost-effective solution for specific applications. From economy cars to heavy-duty trucks, drum brakes continue to serve a purpose where affordability, durability, and simplicity are key considerations. If you’re unsure about the type of brakes your vehicle has or need assistance with brake maintenance, feel free to contact Kevin’s Autos for expert advice and service!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which vehicles use drum brakes?
This type is mainly used for parking brakes on passenger cars, the center brakes on trucks, and brakes on forklifts.
Do any vehicles still use drum brakes?
The drum brake has been around pretty much since cars were invented, and they continue to be used (albeit not as much) because they're cheaper to produce than disc brakes. This is partly because there are fewer compionents involved in a drum brake, and the parking brake can be located inside the drum.
Why are drum brakes not used anymore?
Drum brakes will continue to operate properly as long as they can absorb the heat generated by slowing a vehicle's wheels. Because of this brake fade issue, drum brakes are not used often anymore because of safety concerns.
Which is safer disc brake or drum brake?
Disc brakes offer superior stopping power and heat dissipation, making them ideal for performance-oriented vehicles and demanding driving conditions. Drum brakes, with their cost-effectiveness and durability, are a practical choice for everyday vehicles and less intensive braking demands.
What is better, disc or drum brakes?
Drum brakes use an enclosed drum mechanism, while disc brakes use exposed brake discs and callipers. Also, compared to drum brakes, disc brakes generally offer better braking performance, heat dissipation, and consistency.
What is a big disadvantage of the drum brake?
Cons. Overheating – One of the biggest downsides to drum brakes is their tendency to overheat quickly in conditions where a driver has to brake frequently. This occurs because the components are housed within the metal drum with limited air circulation.
Why were drum brakes phased out?
However, as new safety measures were implemented in the '50s and '60s, most drum brakes began to be phased out of passenger vehicles in favor of the disc brake. Although more expensive to produce, disc brakes offer better stopping power, especially important for the heavier cars of that era.
When did vehicles stop using drum brakes?
In the 80s nearly every car had rear drum brakes, that phased out in the early 90s or so. Only the very cheapest cars had drums past that timeframe.
Which cars still have hand brakes?
What new cars have a traditional handbrake?
- Suzuki: Leading the way, 71% of Suzuki's models still come with a manual handbrake.
- Abarth: Approximately 66% of Abarth's models retain this feature.
- Dacia: About 50% of Dacia's models have the traditional handbrake.
- Fiat: 45% of Fiat's models come with a manual handbrake.
What was the last car with drum brakes?
Although drum brakes graced numerous vehicles, the last major car to predominantly use them was the 1998 Ford Escort. Throughout their tenure, drum brakes showcased the marvel of early automotive engineering, paving the way for what we know now in braking technology today.
