What Causes Drum Brake Noise?
2 Answers
The causes of drum brake noise are: 1. The brake pads are nearing their wear limit, triggering a warning sound; 2. Foreign objects inside the brake assembly; 3. Improper installation of brake shoes, uneven wear of brake linings, or severe wear of the brake drum. Drum brakes consist of components such as the brake backing plate, wheel cylinder, brake shoes, related linkages, springs, pins, and the brake drum, and are commonly used for rear wheels. The method for removing drum brakes is: 1. Before removal, use a screwdriver to press the wedge upward through the wheel's bolt hole to retract the brake shoes; 2. Use the VW6372 special tool to remove the hub cap, pull out the cotter pin, and remove the crown nut retaining ring; 3. Remove the wheel bearing preload adjustment nut, washer, and bearing, then take off the brake drum.
I often hear strange noises when driving a car with drum brakes, such as screeching or squealing sounds, especially after rain or prolonged parking. From my experience, this is mostly due to dust accumulation in the gaps of the brake drum, which causes friction like sandpaper. Another reason could be uneven wear or hard spots on the brake shoes, or deformation of the material due to aging, which also causes trouble. Improper installation, such as loose fasteners or a deformed drum itself, can lead to vibrations and noise. I always remember to get it checked early, as prolonged wear can affect braking distance—safety is no small matter. Taking it to a reputable repair shop for cleaning or adjustment can alleviate the issue, saving both money and hassle. Avoiding dusty roads during regular driving can also help prevent some of these noises.
