How often should brake shoes be replaced in drum brakes?
2 Answers
Drum brakes require brake shoe replacement every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers. A drum brake system consists of rotating components, stationary components, actuating components, and positioning adjustment devices. It is composed of a brake backing plate, wheel cylinder, brake shoes, related linkages, springs, pins, and the brake drum, and is commonly used for rear wheels. The method for replacing drum brake shoes is as follows: 1. Remove the tire and tap the surface of the brake drum with a hammer; 2. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the gap of the spring and pry upwards with force to remove the return spring; 3. Use pliers to remove the fixing bolt of the brake shoe, and the brake shoe will automatically fall off the brake assembly. Remove the brake shoe; 4. Detach the locating pin from the old brake shoe and install it on the new brake shoe.
My drum brake shoes are typically inspected every 20,000 kilometers or so, but the actual replacement interval depends on driving habits. I mostly drive in suburban areas with frequent hard braking, sometimes requiring replacement as early as 15,000 km; my friend who mainly drives on highways with less braking can stretch it to 30,000 km. The key is checking wear thickness—drum brakes aren’t as visible as disc brakes, so you’ll need to disassemble them. The ideal thickness shouldn’t drop below 2 mm. If you notice softer braking or squeaking sounds, get them fixed immediately. Otherwise, the risk of skidding in wet conditions increases—I once nearly rear-ended someone and ended up spending a few hundred bucks on new shoes and axle repairs. I recommend new drivers schedule regular maintenance, like having a technician check every 5,000 km—it’s cost-effective and reassuring. Drum vs. disc brakes: drums last longer but dissipate heat poorly, requiring more frequent upkeep.
