Why does the Nissan Terra use drum brakes

[GeorgeDella]

Nissan Terra adopts drum brakes to reduce costs. Working principle of drum brakes: Drum brakes utilize stationary brake shoes inside the brake drum to create friction against the rotating drum, thereby reducing wheel speed. When the brake pedal is depressed, the force applied by the foot pushes the piston in the master cylinder to propel brake fluid forward, generating pressure in the hydraulic lines. This pressure is transmitted through the brake fluid to the wheel cylinders at each wheel. The wheel cylinder pistons then push the brake shoes outward, causing them to rub against the inner surface of the brake drum and generate sufficient friction to decrease the wheel's rotation speed. Advantages of drum brakes: Drum brakes have excellent self-energizing characteristics. As the brake shoes expand outward, the rotating brake drum twists slightly, creating a self-amplifying effect - the greater the outward force (braking force) of the shoes, the more pronounced this effect becomes. This is why most large vehicles still use drum brakes. Apart from lower costs, the main difference between drum brakes on large and small vehicles is that large vehicles typically use air-assisted systems while small vehicles use vacuum-assisted systems to aid braking.

[VanHope]

Why does the Nissan Terra use drum brakes? To be honest, after 20 years of driving, I think this design is mainly for cost considerations. Drum brakes are significantly cheaper than disc brakes, allowing Nissan to reduce the overall vehicle price and make it more affordable for more people. Additionally, drum brakes on the rear wheels are more durable on unpaved or off-road terrains. For SUVs like the Terra that frequently drive on rough roads, the enclosed structure of drum brakes provides better protection against mud and sand, reducing the likelihood of jamming. As for heat dissipation issues, city driving speeds are generally low, so overheating is rarely a problem—only requiring slight attention during long highway trips. Maintenance is also simpler, and changing brake pads yourself is quite convenient. Overall, this configuration balances cost-effectiveness and practicality, aligning with Nissan's pursuit of reliable family-oriented vehicles. I believe that if you don't frequently haul heavy loads or engage in high-speed driving, drum brakes are entirely sufficient, with minimal safety risks.

[SanSabrina]

During vehicle maintenance, I've encountered many Terra cases where drum brakes are installed on the rear wheels primarily for practical considerations. Their simple structure results in lower maintenance costs, and parts are readily available, unlike disc brakes which require more frequent servicing. In load-bearing scenarios, drum brakes provide stronger braking force, making them suitable for rugged SUVs like the Terra that frequently tow cargo or navigate mountain roads. Weight-wise, drum brakes are lighter, contributing to slight fuel savings. While disc brakes offer better heat dissipation, the temperature difference on rear wheels during daily use is negligible. With proper maintenance and regular inspections, drum brakes can have a longer lifespan. I advise owners not to worry about this issue—it actually saves money and hassle without compromising the vehicle's overall performance.

[DawsonRose]

When I chose the Terra, I researched the braking system. Using drum brakes on the rear wheels helps reduce costs and lower the price. For ordinary family users, this has no impact as the brakes are sensitive and safe enough for city driving. Compared to disc brakes, drum brakes offer more stable handling at low speeds, especially in rainy or snowy conditions where they are less prone to slipping. Maintenance is also simpler and can be done by oneself. Nissan's design strikes a balance between cost-effectiveness and core experience without compromise.

[ValentinaFitz]

When buying an SUV, I have to consider the budget. The drum brake design of the Terra is very reasonable. Using drum brakes on the rear wheels can save thousands of dollars, making the car more affordable. In terms of braking power, it's sufficient for general road conditions without any issues. The lighter weight also leads to lower fuel consumption, saving a lot of money in the long run. Disc brakes might perform better on the racetrack, but for us ordinary people, drum brakes have no disadvantages and actually save money. Maintenance is simpler, and you can even replace parts yourself. I think this configuration reflects Nissan's focus on practicality without unnecessary frills.