How long do rear drum brakes last?
Rear drum brakes typically last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Proper care and regular inspections can help maximize the lifespan of your rear drum brakes.
Understanding Rear Drum Brakes
Rear drum brakes are a type of brake system found on many vehicles, particularly older models or those used for heavy-duty applications. Unlike disc brakes, which use calipers and pads to grip the wheel's rotor, drum brakes use a set of brake shoes that expand outward to press against the inside of a drum-shaped brake component.
Drum brakes are generally less expensive to manufacture and maintain than disc brakes, but they can be more prone to wear and tear over time. The brake shoes and drums can gradually wear down, reducing the braking efficiency and potentially leading to the need for replacement.
Factors Affecting Rear Drum Brake Lifespan
Several factors can influence the lifespan of rear drum brakes, including:
- Driving Conditions: Vehicles used for heavy-duty or frequent towing tasks, or those driven in hilly or mountainous areas, may experience more wear on their rear drum brakes due to increased braking demands.
- Maintenance: Regular inspections, adjustments, and replacement of worn components can help extend the lifespan of rear drum brakes.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive or frequent braking can accelerate the wear on drum brakes, while gentle, gradual braking can help preserve them.
- Vehicle Age and Mileage: Older vehicles or those with higher mileage may have drum brakes that are more prone to wear and require more frequent replacement.
By understanding these factors and following recommended maintenance schedules, vehicle owners can help ensure their rear drum brakes last as long as possible.
Signs of Rear Drum Brake Wear
There are several signs that may indicate your rear drum brakes are nearing the end of their lifespan, including:
- Decreased Braking Efficiency: If you notice your vehicle taking longer to stop or requiring more pedal pressure, it could be a sign of worn drum brakes.
- Unusual Noises: Squeaking, grinding, or other unusual sounds coming from the rear wheels may indicate worn brake components.
- Visible Wear: Inspecting the brake drums and shoes can reveal signs of excessive wear, such as grooves, cracks, or uneven wear patterns.
If you notice any of these signs, it's important to have your rear drum brakes inspected and serviced by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle's safety and performance.
How to tell if drum brakes are bad?
How do I know if my drum brakes are worn out?
- The back of the vehicle shakes or pulls to one side when applying the brakes.
- The brake pedal vibrates or feels soft on stopping power.
- The parking brake feels loose or doesn't hold the car in place.
- The brakes grind or squeal when applied.
Can you drive with bad rear drum brakes?
You shouldn't drive at all with grinding brakes.
Get it fixed immediately. Every mile risks more damage and reduces safety.
How much does it cost to replace rear drum brakes?
Per axle. The average brake drum replacement cost averages between $275 and $399 depending on the type of the vehicle you have the type of repair shop you're taking your vehicle to.
What is the most common failure for drum brakes?
Self adjuster failure is the most common reason drum brakes fail. The drum brake self adjuster is a small mechanism that's responsible for adjusting the position of the shoes in the drum as the lining wears out. It's pretty common for the self adjuster to fail due to corrosion.
How often do rear drum brakes need to be replaced?
As a result, most people are unfamiliar with how drum brakes work or when to replace them. The good news is brake drums are built to last 100K to 150K miles and are easy to maintain. However, the parts inside the drum need to be inspected and serviced more frequently.
What is the life expectancy of rear brakes?
How long do car brakes last? The most accurate answer is simply this: it depends on how you drive! Most car brakes will last between 25,000 and 60,000 miles–between three and six years for most daily drivers–but some sets may last even longer for those who exercise good habits.
At what point should you replace rear brakes?
You should generally replace your rear brakes every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. However, individual driving habits and conditions may influence this timeframe. Regular check-ups with your trusted mechanic can help fine-tune this schedule based on your circumstances.
How do I know if my rear drum brakes are worn out?
How do I know if my drum brakes are worn out?
- The back of the vehicle shakes or pulls to one side when applying the brakes.
- The brake pedal vibrates or feels soft on stopping power.
- The parking brake feels loose or doesn't hold the car in place.
- The brakes grind or squeal when applied.
Do drum brakes last longer than pads?
Drum brakes have a longer lifespan and typically don't need replacement as often, but it will happen eventually in the vehicle's lifetime. Most vehicles have drums as rear brakes, with discs and brake pads at the front.
What year did they stop using drum brakes?
Now practically all cars use disc brakes on the front wheels, and many use disc brakes on all four wheels. In the United States, the Jeep CJ-5 (manufactured by AM General) was the final automobile (produced for the United States Postal Service) to use front drum brakes when it was phased out in 1986.
