Brake Pads vs. Brake Shoes Explained
Brake pads and brake shoes have a similar function—slowing down your vehicle when you press the brake pedal. However, brake pads and brake shoes work differently to decrease the speed of your car. A brake pad is part of a disc brake system, while a brake shoe is used with a drum brake system.
Drum brake systems are used less in modern vehicles. In some cases, a vehicle may have drum brakes on its rear tires with disc brakes on the front wheels. Disc brakes are more effective at stopping your car, but brake pads are most expensive than brake shoes to replace. This is why drum brakes are sometimes used for the rear wheels.
Understanding how your brakes work will help you drive with confidence on the roads. Proper maintenance will allow you to go longer without needing new brakes.
What Are Brake Pads?
Brake pads are pieces of a disc brake system that when the brake is applied, a caliper applies pressure to the brake pads, which push against the rotor to create the friction needed to slow down the car.
What Are Brake Shoes?
Brake shoes are part of a drum brake system. Brake shoes sit on the inside of a brake drum, and when the brake is applied, the shoes press against the outside of the drum to slow down the vehicle.
Is a Brake Pad the Same As a Brake Shoe?
No, brake pads and brake shoes are different. While they both serve a similar purpose, they do not function in the same way, and they are not interchangeable. The main difference is how the brake pad or brake shoe applies friction to stop the vehicle. You’ll need to know the type of brake your car uses to understand if you need brake pads or brake shoes.
What Are the Benefits of Brake Pads Over Brake Shoes?
Brake pads are more efficient than brake shoes. Brake pads are more heat resistant, giving them a longer lifespan and helping brake the vehicle effectively. Brake pads are better for braking in wet or snowy conditions because the brake pads help keep the rotors dry and provide friction for braking.
How Can I Tell If I Need to Replace My Brake Shoes or Brake Pads?
It is important to inspect your brake shoes or brake pads often and to replace them when necessary. Worn-out brake shoes or brake pads can lead to longer braking time and make driving your vehicle less safe. Here are some signs that it's time to replace your brake shoes or brake pads:
Reduction in braking force
A longer distance needed to brake
Squealing or rubbing noises when braking
What Happens If I Don't Change My Brake Shoes or Brake Pads?
Not changing your brake shoes or brake pads when necessary jeopardizes your safety and those in your vehicle. Inadequate brake shoes can lead to longer braking time or the inability to come to a complete stop when needed.
Brake shoes and brake pads directly affect your vehicle’s stopping power. Both brake shoes and brake pads get worn down with use and will need to be replaced. If you wait too long to replace worn-down brake shoes, you can also damage other components of your car’s brake system, like the brake rotors.
It is important to head to a car repair expert if you’re concerned about your brake system.
Mavis Is Your One-Stop Shop for Brake Maintenance
It is important to keep your vehicle operating in its best condition, including your brake system. Whether you have disc brakes or drum brakes, it is critical to keep the system in its best condition. Replacing your brake pads or brake shoes when they are worn down will help keep your vehicle properly managing its driving conditions.
When your brake system needs maintenance, schedule an appointment with Mavis.