When it comes to replacing your brake pads and shoes, it’s important to choose the right ones for your vehicle and driving needs. Here are some factors to consider when selecting brake pads and shoes:
- Material: Brake pads and shoes can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, metallic, and organic. Ceramic brake pads tend to be quieter and produce less dust, while metallic pads can handle higher temperatures and offer better performance in extreme conditions. Organic pads are typically the most affordable option, but may not last as long as other materials.
- Driving style: Consider how you typically drive your vehicle. Do you do a lot of city driving with frequent stops and starts, or do you mostly drive on the highway? Do you tow heavy loads or drive in mountainous areas? Your driving style and environment can impact the performance and longevity of your brake pads and shoes.
- Brand: There are many different brands of brake pads and shoes on the market, each with their own reputation for quality and performance. Do some research and read reviews to determine which brands are most trusted and reliable.
- Price: While it’s important to choose high-quality brake pads and shoes, price is also a consideration for many drivers. Compare prices and consider any promotions or discounts that may be available to help you get the best value.
When it comes to installing your new brake pads and shoes, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Here are the basic steps for replacing brake pads:
- Lift the vehicle and remove the wheel: Use a jack to lift the vehicle off the ground and remove the wheel to access the brake assembly.
- Remove the old brake pads: Use a C-clamp to compress the brake caliper piston, then remove the brake pads from the caliper.
- Install the new brake pads: Insert the new pads into the caliper and reattach the caliper to the rotor.
- Repeat for the other side: Repeat the process on the other side of the vehicle.
When replacing brake shoes, the process is a bit more involved and may require additional tools. Here are the basic steps for replacing brake shoes:
- Remove the drum: Use a drum puller to remove the drum from the wheel assembly.
- Remove the old brake shoes: Use a brake spring tool to remove the tension from the brake shoe springs and disconnect the shoes from the brake hardware.
- Install the new brake shoes: Install the new shoes onto the brake hardware and reconnect the springs.
- Reinstall the drum: Put the drum back onto the wheel assembly and adjust the brake shoes as needed.
By taking the time to choose the right brake pads and shoes for your vehicle and following the manufacturer’s instructions for installation, you can help ensure optimal braking performance and safety on the road.
This article is from AutoZone, link: https://www.autozone.com/diy/brakes/choosing-the-right-brake-pads-and-shoes
