How to Replace Drum Brakes on a Polo?
4 Answers
The method to replace drum brakes on a Polo is as follows: 1. Remove the tire, use a hammer to tap the surface of the brake drum to loosen it, then remove it; 2. Insert a flat-head screwdriver into the spring gap and pry out the return spring; 3. Remove the fixing screw of the brake shoe and take out the brake shoe; 4. Remove the positioning pin of the brake shoe, install it on the new brake shoe, then assemble and install it onto the brake; 5. After installation, adjust the height of the handbrake; 6. Install the new brake drum and tire. Taking the 2019 Polo Panoramic Enjoyment Edition as an example, it belongs to the small car category, with body dimensions of: length 4053mm, width 1740mm, height 1449mm, and a wheelbase of 2564mm.
As a new car owner attempting to replace the drum brakes on my Polo for the first time, I was admittedly nervous. The first step is to park on level ground, engage the parking brake, and use a jack to lift the wheel securely. Then remove the wheel nuts, take off the wheel to expose the drum brake assembly. Use a wrench to loosen the retaining nuts and carefully remove the old brake shoes and springs – they might be rusty, so handle them cautiously to avoid cuts. Before installing new shoes, inspect the drum surface for smoothness; if grooved, it's best to have it professionally resurfaced. During installation, align the springs properly and apply lubricant to prevent noise. The whole process took me two hours, saving on repair costs, but I recommend wearing gloves and safety glasses to avoid accidental injuries. If unfamiliar, having an experienced friend assist provides peace of mind, or watch YouTube tutorials for step-by-step guidance to prevent improper installation affecting braking performance.
Experienced DIY enthusiasts can change Polo drum brakes with ease. First, prepare the tools: a jack, wheel wrench, screwdriver, and specialized drum removal tool. Lift the rear wheels of the car, ensuring the support stand is stable—safety first. After removing the wheel and drum cover, check the brake shoe wear; replace them if the thickness is below 2mm. When installing new shoes, pay attention to the spring direction—older Polo models use a specific hook design, so don’t install them backward. After installation, adjust the clearance and manually rotate the drum brake to test for smooth operation. The entire process takes about an hour, and buying aftermarket parts for a few dozen dollars will do the trick. Regular inspections are recommended to avoid brake failure; routine maintenance extends their lifespan. Remember to clean dust, prevent rust, and test braking performance before hitting the road.
Safety first is my principle, especially as a family car owner. Replacing Polo drum brakes may seem simple, but it carries significant risks—improper operation could lead to brake failure accidents. I first ensure the car is parked on a level garage surface and secured with double support stands. After removing the wheel, I inspect the condition of the old pads; if severely worn, they should be replaced promptly. But honestly, I don't recommend a complete DIY approach; it's better to have it done at a professional shop where they have calibration tools to ensure brake sensitivity. The entire process takes about 45 minutes—it's not expensive but protects the whole family's safety by preventing small mistakes from turning into major disasters. Regular maintenance is even more crucial, with inspections every two years.
