Why do new cars still come with rear drum brakes?
Rear drum brakes persist on some new cars because they are cheaper to manufacture, provide a robust and compact parking brake solution, and are adequate for the rear axle’s lighter braking duty. While many models use rear discs on higher trims or in markets that demand stronger braking performance, drums remain common on budget-focused configurations.
Cost and manufacturing considerations
A combination of price and production efficiency helps explain why some new cars still ship with rear drum brakes.
- Lower material costs and simpler supply chains reduce the total cost of rear drums versus disc brake assemblies.
- Drum brakes are easier to package in tight, economy-oriented chassis where space and weight targets matter.
- A drum-based rear brake often includes a straightforward, reliable parking brake mechanism, which can simplify design and maintenance for budget models.
- Automakers can keep baseline price points lower by reserving rear drums for entry trims while offering rear discs on higher trims or models where customers expect stronger braking performance.
Taken together, these cost and packaging considerations help explain the continued use of rear drums on some new cars, especially in entry-level segments or markets with price sensitivity.
Engineering and safety considerations
Beyond sticker price, several engineering factors influence whether a car uses rear drums or discs on the rear axle.
- Front brakes do most of the braking work in normal driving, so rear brakes can be smaller and lighter without compromising daily stopping power.
- Drum brakes offer a robust and reliable parking brake system, which is why many budget cars keep drums to ensure a solid hold in all conditions.
- Integration with modern systems (ABS, electronic parking brakes) is feasible for both drum and disc rear brakes, but drum setups can be paired with simpler or more affordable actuation methods in base models.
- Packaging constraints on small cars, and regional cost pressures, push manufacturers toward rear drums on the least-expensive configurations while keeping disc brakes for higher-performance or longevity-focused options.
These engineering and safety considerations show that rear drums are not a sign of outdated technology, but a pragmatic choice tied to the overall vehicle design and market strategy.
Market trends and what it means for buyers
For consumers, the brake layout of the rear axle is still a meaningful detail, especially when comparing base models or shopping in budget segments.
- Base trims and some small, price-conscious models may use rear drums on the rear axle, while higher-trim versions commonly switch to rear discs.
- If you prioritize uniform braking feel and easier maintenance, you may prefer models that use rear discs (or higher trims) even on the rear axle.
- Electronic parking brake systems and ABS are compatible with both drum and disc configurations, but the maintenance experience and part availability can differ between the two setups.
- When evaluating a car, check the specific brake layout for the trim you’re considering, as the configuration can vary within the same model line.
Buying plans that require strong overall braking performance or easier long-term maintenance often lead buyers to choose higher trims or different models that use rear discs across the board.
Summary
Rear drum brakes remain a live option on some new cars because they lower cost, simplify packaging, and still meet the rear axle’s lighter braking demands and parking-brake needs. While the industry increasingly favors rear discs on many models and trims—especially for performance, safety, and wear considerations—drums persist in budget configurations and certain markets. For buyers, the key is to verify the brake setup on the trim you’re considering and weigh the trade-offs between cost, maintenance, and braking performance.
Do cars still have rear drum brakes?
However, drum brakes are still often used on the rear wheels, and for parking brakes. Some vehicles utilize a "drum-in-hat" parking brake, where the brake shoes are arranged inside the center portion (hat) of a disc brake rotor, which acts as the drum.
What new cars still use drum brakes?
You'll find rear drum brakes on the 2025 Nissan Versa and other similar affordable cars, too. That's because drum brakes are easier to make and assemble, built from cheaper materials, and can lower the price (and potentially maintenance costs) of cars equipped with them.
Why do new cars still have drum brakes?
Durability and Longevity
They are well-suited to handling the rigors of daily driving and tend to last longer than disc brakes in rear applications. This longevity can be attributed to the fact that drum brakes are enclosed, which helps protect them from dirt, debris, and moisture.
Are drum brakes making a comeback?
Technology with a history – and a future
It was not until the 1970s that disc brakes began to establish themselves as the standard. Today – in the age of electromobility – the drum brake is celebrating its comeback.
