What is the life expectancy of drum brakes?
Drum brakes, a common braking system found in older vehicles, have a relatively long lifespan compared to other brake types. On average, drum brakes can last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles before needing replacement, depending on various factors.
Understanding Drum Brakes
Drum brakes are a type of braking system that uses a set of brake shoes that press against the inner surface of a rotating drum. This design helps to distribute the braking force evenly, resulting in a more consistent and reliable braking performance. Drum brakes are often found on the rear wheels of vehicles, though they may also be used on the front wheels in some cases.
Factors Affecting Drum Brake Lifespan
The lifespan of drum brakes can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Driving Conditions: Vehicles used in hilly or mountainous areas, or those that frequently tow heavy loads, may experience more wear on their drum brakes, leading to a shorter lifespan.
- Driving Habits: Aggressive driving, such as frequent hard braking, can cause faster wear on drum brake components.
- Maintenance: Regular inspection, adjustment, and replacement of worn drum brake parts can help extend their lifespan.
- Brake Fluid Quality: Using the recommended brake fluid and keeping it clean can help prevent premature wear on drum brake components.
By considering these factors and maintaining their drum brakes properly, vehicle owners can help ensure their brakes last as long as possible.
Replacing Drum Brakes
When drum brakes reach the end of their lifespan, they will typically exhibit signs of wear, such as decreased braking performance, a spongy pedal feel, or noises like grinding or squeaking. At this point, it's important to have the drum brakes inspected and replaced by a qualified mechanic to ensure the safety and reliability of the vehicle's braking system.
Do drum brakes last longer than rotors?
Drum brakes can provide more braking force than an equal diameter disc brake. Drum brakes last longer because drum brakes have increased friction contact area than a disc.
How often should drum brakes be replaced?
Mileage: Drum brakes typically last between 30000 to 70000 miles. Signs of Wear: Look for signs such as squeaking, grinding, or reduced braking performance. Inspection: It's a good idea to have your brakes inspected regularly, ideally during routine maintenance (every 6000 to 10000 miles).
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 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.
Are drum brakes easy to fix?
Drum brakes have a different layout than disc brakes. They also function differently. Yet, they're just as easy to replace. There are a few specialized tools that are needed for the job, but they are all pretty inexpensive.
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 should a rear drum brake job cost?
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.
How do I know if my drum brakes need to be replaced?
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 drum brakes?
You shouldn't drive at all with grinding brakes.
Get it fixed immediately. Every mile risks more damage and reduces safety.
Are drum brakes easy to replace?
Drum brakes have a different layout than disc brakes. They also function differently. Yet, they're just as easy to replace. There are a few specialized tools that are needed for the job, but they are all pretty inexpensive.
