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United Tire and Service News

Are Brake Shoes and Brake Pads The Same Thing?

7/13/2022 4:52:00 PM | (1943) View Count | Return
There are quite a few components that make up the brake system of your vehicle. Brake shoes are one of the parts of your vehicle's brake system. Another part of your vehicle's brake system is brake pads. These two components do share some similarities, but they are not the same thing. Read on for more information about brake shoes and brake pads. 
 

What Are Brake Shoes?two brake shoes on a black background

One part of the answer to what are brake shoes is that brake shoes are one component of a drum brake system. Additionally, brake shoes are shaped like crescents and they include a rough friction material on one of their sides. Brake shoes remain inside the brake drum. When you press down on the brake pedal, it forces the brake shoes outward.
 
As a result, the brake shoes push against the brake drum's inside and slow down the wheel. Brake shoes in addition to drum brakes are components of an older kind of braking system. Both drum brakes and brake shoes are now less common in modern cars. Some vehicle models include drum brakes for their rear wheels. This is largely due to the fact it is cheaper to manufacture drum brakes. 
 

How Long Do They Last?

Both brake drums and brake shoes are durable parts. They are designed to last for quite some time. Brake shoes typically last roughly 30,000 miles if you use them under normal maintenance and driving conditions. 
 

Brake Shoe Replacement

As previously mentioned, brake shoes usually last between 30,000 and 35,000 miles. It is best to replace brake shoes every 30,000 to 35,000 miles. You might be able to make brake shoes last longer in easier driving conditions such as driving down the highway in light traffic.
 
Replacing brake shoes can be a bit more expensive than some other types of car repair. On average, replacing brake shoes costs approximately between $120 and $200. This cost can vary a bit depending on what kind of vehicle you own and the kind of repair shop replacing the brake shoes. 
 

two brake pads on a white backgroundWhat Are Brake Pads?

Brake pads are one component of a disc brake system. Brake pads function by making contact with your vehicle's rotors and creating friction to cause your vehicle to decelerate and stop. Unlike brake shoes, brake pads are more common on modern vehicles. In general, disc brake systems are more common than drum brake systems when it comes to modern vehicles. 
 
Brake pads put pressure on the rotors, which are connected directly to every single wheel on your vehicle. This pressure causes friction which decelerates and stops your vehicle. As the rotor slows down, the wheels follow suit and also slow down. 
 

How Long Do They Last?

As with brake shoes, the longevity of brake pads can depend on driving conditions and maintenance conditions. However, brake pads generally last roughly between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. Some brake pads can even last up to 100,000 miles. 
 

Brake Pad Replacement

You should keep in mind that brake pads usually hold up for approximately 30,000 to 70,000 miles. Despite this fact, many drivers tend to replace their vehicle's brake pads every 40,000 miles. The cost of brake pad replacement can also vary somewhat. Typically, brake pad replacement costs between $115 and $300 per axle. This means that replacing brake pads for all four of your vehicle's wheels can cost between $460-1200.
 
Need Assistance With Your Brakes?
Whether you're in need of brake repair or replacement, the team at United Tire & Service is here to help you every step of the way. If you have further questions about your brakes or any issues you may be experiencing, our experienced service advisors and technicians are able to assist. To schedule your next appointment, call your local United Tire & Service location or schedule online.  
 
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At United Tire & Service, our staff is here to serve customers throughout Pennsylvania. We offer top-quality auto repair services done by expert technicians. From an oil change or brake repair to auto air conditioning repair, muffler repair, engine diagnostics, wheel alignment, car batteries, fleet repair, tire repair, suspension repair and Pennsylvania state vehicle inspections, we do it all. We also stock a wide selection of tires from all the top brands in the industry including Goodyear Tires, Dunlop Tires, Kelly Tires, and many more. Schedule an appointment with us today at one of our locations in Concordville, Downingtown, Emmaus, Feasterville, Phoenixville, Southampton, Paoli, West Chester or Willow Grove, PA. We are your number one source for top quality, affordable auto repair and tires!