How Often Should Drum Brakes Be Replaced?
3 Answers
Drum brakes should be replaced every 60,000 kilometers. If the brake pads wear down to the warning indicator or are found to be worn down to 2-3 millimeters during maintenance, they should be replaced immediately. The tools required for replacing brake pads include a jack, suitable socket wrenches, a box-end wrench, a screwdriver, sandpaper, and lubricating grease. The specific steps for replacing drum brakes are as follows: 1. Remove the rear brake drum: After removing the tire, the brake drum will be visible. Use a hammer to tap the surface of the brake drum to loosen it before removal. 2. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the gap of the spring and pry upwards to remove the return spring. 3. Use pliers to remove the fixing bolts of the brake pads. There are two brake pads and two fixing bolts on the wheel. 4. After removing both front and rear brake pads, the brake pads will automatically fall off the brake assembly. 5. Install new brake pads: Remove the locating pins from the old brake pads and install them on the new ones. Assemble both sides before installing them onto the brake assembly. 6. Adjust the handbrake height and complete the installation of the new brake pads.
How often should drum brakes be replaced? It varies from person to person. Having driven older cars for many years, I can say drum brake lifespan largely depends on driving conditions. For frequent highway driving or heavy loads, brake pads wear faster and may need inspection every 20,000 km. For city commuting, 40,000-50,000 km is usually fine. During each maintenance, have the mechanic measure thickness with calipers - replace if below 2mm. Driving habits matter too: avoid sudden braking and towing to reduce wear. I personally inspect quarterly by listening for unusual noises when braking - any squealing or spongy feel means immediate replacement. Safety first - never compromise when it comes to wheels keeping you alive. Weather also affects wear; rainy mountain roads demand more frequent checks. Regular maintenance saves money and hassle in the long run.
My small car has been running for five years, and the drum brakes have been replaced twice. Mainly used for urban commuting, with less sudden braking and long-distance driving, I generally consider replacing them every three to four years or after 30,000 kilometers. The key is to check the wear indicators: unusual noises when braking or reduced sensitivity when stopping are clear signals. I usually drive smoothly to prolong their lifespan. Last year, the brakes started making noise, and the mechanic said the pads were thin and needed replacement—costing around a hundred bucks, not too expensive. Environmental factors also play a big role: muddy roads or dusty areas can dirty the drum brakes, accelerating wear. I recommend a comprehensive check during annual car maintenance. If DIY is too challenging, don’t hesitate to take it to a professional shop for convenience and safety. Remember, tire condition is also related, so addressing both together is more efficient.
