How much are new brake drums?
The cost of new brake drums can vary significantly depending on factors such as the make and model of your vehicle, the type of brake drums needed, and where you purchase them. In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $300 or more for a set of new brake drums.
Understanding Brake Drums
Brake drums are an essential component of a vehicle's braking system, responsible for slowing and stopping the wheels. They are typically made of cast iron or steel and are located behind the wheel, enclosing the brake shoes or pads. When the brakes are applied, the brake shoes or pads press against the inside of the drum, creating friction that slows the wheel's rotation.
Factors Affecting Brake Drum Costs
The cost of new brake drums can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Vehicle Make and Model: Brake drums for larger or more expensive vehicles tend to be more expensive than those for smaller, more affordable cars.
- Drum Type: There are different types of brake drums, such as standard, premium, or heavy-duty, each with varying prices.
- Replacement vs. Remanufactured: Remanufactured brake drums are typically less expensive than brand-new replacement parts.
- Labor Costs: The cost of labor to install the new brake drums can also add to the overall expense.
It's important to note that the cost of brake drums can also vary depending on the location and the specific retailer or mechanic you choose to work with.
Replacing Brake Drums
Replacing brake drums is generally a straightforward process, but it's important to have it done by a qualified mechanic to ensure the job is done correctly and safely. The typical steps involved in replacing brake drums include:
- Removing the wheel and tire
- Removing the brake drum
- Inspecting the brake components and replacing any worn or damaged parts
- Installing the new brake drum
- Reassembling the wheel and tire
- Adjusting the brakes as needed
It's recommended to replace brake drums in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even braking performance and wear across the axle.
Are drum brakes easy to replace?
It's not difficult once you've done it but it could be daunting for a first-timer. Sometimes there's a screw that holds the drum to the hub which will need an impact driver to remove. Drums may be reusable but you'll need shoes, hardware and wheel cylinders to do it properly.
How much does it cost to replace brake drums?
The average cost for a Brake Drum Replacement is between $263 and $306.
Can bad brakes affect transmission?
Hard braking can cause the engine to shift abruptly between gears, especially in automatic cars. This sudden motion can create stress on the drivetrain components, which include the transmission.
Can you drive with a broken brake drum?
Driving a car with broken brakes is extremely dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. If the brakes are malfunctioning, it can lead to a loss of control of the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents for you and others on the road.
How long does a drum brake job take?
On average, replacing a pair of drums and shoes takes about two hours from start to finish. However, if you need to replace other components as well, it can take longer. Since drum brakes last so long, it's a good idea to replace the wheel cylinder, adjuster, and springs when you replace the drums and shoes.
What causes brake drums to go bad?
Deep, uniform wear at the edge of the drum where the lining rub path starts can result from brake drag, brake imbalance and dirt embedded in the brake lining. Figures 6.1 and 6.2.
What are signs of a bad brake drum?
Here are some of the symptoms associated with a faulty brake drum:
- Scraping or Grinding Noise.
- Low Brake Pedal.
- Soft Brake Pedal.
- Pulsation in the Brake Pedal.
- Mechanical Fade.
- Lining Fade.
- Gas Fade.
- Water Fade.
Are drums more expensive than rotors?
In general, drum brake replacement tends to be slightly cheaper than disc brake replacement due to the lower cost of parts. However, this cost advantage can be negated if the drum itself needs replacing.
How often should brake drums be replaced?
around 150,000 to 200,000 miles
Drum brakes are designed to be operable for around 150,000 to 200,000 miles, while the shoes are meant to last for 30,000 to 40,000 miles. These values, however, are rated for regular driving conditions, and various factors could affect the longevity of the brake drums.
How to know if brake drums need to be replaced?
How to Tell If Your Drum Brakes Need to Be Serviced
- The back of the car shakes or pulls to one side when applying the brakes.
- The brake pedal vibrates or feels soft.
- The parking brake feels loose or doesn't hold the car in place.
- The brakes grind or squeal when applied.
