How Often Should Car Brake Drums Be Replaced?
2 Answers
For the front wheels, it's recommended every 30,000 kilometers, and for the rear wheels, every 60,000 kilometers. However, the actual replacement interval depends on the driver's habits and the vehicle's operating conditions. The most accurate method is to check the thickness of the brake pads; replacement is needed if the thickness is less than 3 millimeters. Here are some relevant details: 1. Brake Lifespan: Under normal conditions, the front brake pads last about 30,000 kilometers, while the rear brake pads last about 60,000 kilometers. Since each vehicle's mileage varies, the wear on the brake pads will differ accordingly. 2. Replacement Criteria: When the brake pads become too thin, their effectiveness significantly decreases. During inspection, note that new brake pads are typically around 1.5 cm thick. If the brake pads wear down to approximately 0.3 cm, they should be replaced promptly.
I've been driving for almost twenty years and know that brake drums shouldn't be replaced on a fixed schedule. What really matters is how you use your car and your maintenance habits. In city traffic with frequent stops, you might press the brakes over a dozen times a day, wearing them out much faster than on long highway trips – sometimes needing replacement as early as 50,000 km. Last time I replaced my drums at 100,000 km when the mechanic measured them with calipers and found the thickness below the manufacturer's safety limit. Always watch for warning signs like unusual noises or a spongy brake pedal. Have them checked during routine maintenance – don't wait until increased stopping distance causes an accident. Safety comes first; spending a little now prevents major accidents later.
