Are Cars with Rear Drum Brakes Very Poor?
2 Answers
Rear drum brake cars are not very poor; in fact, they offer good cost performance. Drum brakes work by using hydraulic pressure to push the brake shoes inside the brake drum outward, causing friction between the brake shoes and the inner surface of the rotating brake drum to achieve braking. Below are the pros and cons of rear drum brakes: 1. Strong braking force, capable of stopping the car promptly, which is why drum brakes are widely used in large vehicles like trucks and buses. 2. Lower manufacturing costs, simpler parts processing and assembly, and easier installation of the handbrake mechanism for rear drum brakes. 3. The downside is that compared to disc brakes, they suffer more from heat fade, braking is less linear, they are less capable of performing high-frequency braking actions, and they don't work as well with ABS.
From the perspective of a car enthusiast, rear drum brakes aren't necessarily bad. It's just a more cost-effective design suitable for compact cars or entry-level models. The braking performance is sufficient for daily city driving—as long as you're not racing, there won't be major issues. Drum brakes have a simple structure, lower maintenance costs, and cheaper parts, making them friendly for budget-conscious buyers. I once drove an older model with drum brakes for five years, only needing to replace the brake pads without any failures. However, drum brakes have one weakness: poor heat dissipation. During continuous hard braking, like on long descents, the pedal might feel softer. Disc brakes perform better in this regard, offering quicker response and more stable control. But for most urban driving, drum brakes can fully meet safety requirements. A car's overall quality shouldn't be judged solely by brake type—brand and tuning matter more. Unless you frequently drive mountain roads or chase speed on highways, don't overthink this minor difference. Many experienced drivers actually prefer drum brakes for their durability and long lifespan.
