There’s no doubt that brakes are essential to your safety. But did you know that vehicle brakes are not universal. Some vehicles have disc brakes, drum brakes, or both. If you want to know the difference between the two types of brakes, read on.

Drum Brakes

Drum brakes are the most traditional kind of brakes, and you can still find them on many vehicles’ rear brakes today. Drum brakes have brake shoes instead of brake pads that press against the drum. When the shoes clamp on the drum brakes, your wheels slow down. Drum brakes tend to last longer and are generally cheaper than disc brakes. However, it is not as great at dissipating heat as disc brakes.

Disc Brakes

Disc brakes are the newer brake system design. You can find them on most vehicles on the road today. Disc brakes have brake rotors and brake pads, terms that you are probably familiar with. The friction between those two parts is what causes your wheels to slow down and stop spinning. Disc brakes provide increased stopping power, and they are better at dissipating heat than drum brakes. The only downside is that they cost more than drum brakes. 

Honorable Mentions

Aside from drum brakes and disc brakes, there are additional safety features on your vehicle that kick in when your service brake system can’t in time. For example, the emergency brake or parking brake is powered by cable lines. It should always be used when you park to relieve stress on the transmission. Furthermore, it is used in case your service brakes fail.

Another form of brake is your anti-lock brake system or ABS. This system prevents your wheels from locking up to prevent your vehicle from skidding on wet surfaces. In other words, it prevents your vehicle from hydroplaning in extreme weather conditions.

If you need brake repairs, we invite you to call or visit the local auto repair experts at German Car Depot.