The more you know about your car, the easier it is to notice issues, perform maintenance, and keep your vehicle in good shape. That’s why it’s important to learn what kind of brakes your car has and how they function.

The earliest automobiles used a hand brake to create friction against the tires and stop the vehicle. At the start of the 20th century, manufacturers moved on to in-tire braking systems. This started with the drum back and later evolved into modern disk brakes, but both are still in use today. Learn about the differences between drum and disk brakes and how they serve your vehicle with this guide.

Similarities Between Drum Brakes and Disk Brakes

While drum brakes and disk brakes operate differently, they both follow the same basic principle: apply pressure to a drum or rotor to create friction and slow down the tire assembly. Both drum and disk brakes are in-tire braking systems that require braking fluid to operate. The differences between the two systems revolve around the various parts used to create friction and how well the braking system prevents heat buildup.

How Drum Brakes Work

Drum brakes consist of a round drum that rotates alongside the wheel. Inside the drum are brake shoes. When you press the brake, the wheel cylinder pushes the brake shoes against the drum to create friction. This causes the drum to slow down, which in turn causes the attached wheel to slow down.

The brake shoes generate heat alongside friction. Because the braking system is enclosed within the drum, it’s hard for the various braking components to cool off. This can cause overheating and lead to a less effective braking system. For this reason, drum brakes are falling out of popular usage. While some modern vehicles still have drum brakes in their rear tires, all now use disk brakes in at least the front wheels.

How Disk Brakes Work

Disk brakes consist of a small rotor with a caliper on it. Within the caliper are two brake pads that press against the rotor when you engage the brake. This creates friction that slows down the rotor and the adjacent wheel, causing the car to stop.

Unlike drum brakes, disk brakes are exposed to air. This is one of the most significant differences between drum and disk brakes. Any heat disk brakes generate can easily dissipate, preventing overheating and fading in the various components. This makes disk brakes more powerful and durable. As a result, vehicle manufacturers are gradually phasing out drum brakes in favor of disk brakes.

No matter what kind of brakes you have, Auto Value has the parts you need to make any repairs and keep your braking system working perfectly. Our online store makes it easy to buy brake rotors and any other parts you need to take good care of your vehicle.