How long do Toyota Corolla drum brakes last?
Toyota Corolla drum brakes typically last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving conditions and maintenance. Drum brakes on the rear wheels of a Toyota Corolla are generally more durable than disc brakes, but they still require regular inspection and replacement as needed.
Understanding Toyota Corolla Drum Brakes
The Toyota Corolla is equipped with drum brakes on the rear wheels, which use a self-adjusting mechanism to maintain consistent braking performance. Drum brakes work by using brake shoes that press outward against the inside of a rotating drum, creating friction to slow and stop the vehicle.
Compared to disc brakes, drum brakes tend to last longer before needing replacement. This is because the brake shoes in a drum brake system experience less wear and tear, as they are protected from the elements inside the drum housing.
Factors Affecting Drum Brake Lifespan
- Driving Conditions: Aggressive driving, frequent heavy braking, and towing heavy loads can all accelerate the wear on drum brakes, reducing their lifespan.
- Maintenance: Regular inspection, adjustment, and replacement of drum brake components, such as the brake shoes and wheel cylinders, can help extend their useful life.
- Vehicle Age: Older Toyota Corollas may have drum brakes that are more prone to wear and tear, especially if the vehicle has not been well-maintained over the years.
By following the recommended maintenance schedule and being mindful of driving habits, Toyota Corolla owners can typically expect their drum brakes to last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles before needing replacement.
Recognizing Signs of Drum Brake Wear
Some common signs that a Toyota Corolla's drum brakes may need attention include:
- Decreased braking performance or "spongy" feel in the brake pedal
- Unusual noises, such as squeaking or grinding, when braking
- Visible wear on the brake shoes or drum surface
- Pulling or veering to one side when braking
If any of these issues are observed, it's important to have the drum brakes inspected and serviced by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to ensure safe and reliable braking performance.
How often should I replace the brakes on my Toyota Corolla?
every 10,000-20,000 miles
Generally, the specific timing depends on your driving habits, but as a rule of thumb, you'll typically replace your Toyota brake pads every 10,000-20,000 miles while your rotors can wait for replacements between 50,000-70,000 miles.
Do Toyota Corollas have disc brakes?
Both include Toyota's Star Safety System for effective braking and Power-assisted ventilated 10.8-inch Front Disc Brakes.
How long do Toyota factory brakes last?
The typical brake pad will last around 40,000 miles on average, although its actual parameters are a lot more extensive than that.
How much does a brake job cost for a Toyota Corolla?
The average cost for a Toyota Corolla Brake Pad Replacement is between $258 and $292. Labor costs are estimated between $79 and $99 while parts are priced between $180 and $193. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location.
What is the life expectancy of drum brakes?
100K to 150K miles
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.
How do I know if my 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.
Why does Toyota still use drum brakes?
Fans of other trucks point and laugh. However, there are a few good reasons why Tacomas have drums: Cost: Drum brakes are cheaper to manufacture than disc brakes, and Toyota passes the savings along to its customers. On the Tacoma (and most unloaded pickups), the front brakes do 70%-80% of the braking.
How can I tell if my brakes need replaced?
Brake Pads Have Visible Signs of Wear
Look between the wheel spokes to check the thickness of the brake pads. If the brake pad thickness is less than about 1/4 inch, you'll likely need to replace them. You can also check the rotor for visible cracks or grooves that indicate it needs to be replaced.
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 much does it cost to replace drum brakes?
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.
